Incomplete magnetization switching processes in exchange coupled double layers of Gd–Co alloys

Abstract Exchange coupled double layers of Gd–Co alloys have been prepared to analyze the existence of incomplete magnetization reversal processes in the temperature range where these bilayers present a type A configuration. It has been found that these incomplete switching processes are observed at temperatures where the coercive field of the layer with higher saturation magnetization increases, and that they are related with the formation of a domain structure as revealed by magneto-optical measurements focusing a laser beam along the sample.