Overlayer induced changes of magnetic ordering in ultrathin cobalt film

Abstract Magneto-optical studies, based on the polar Kerr effect, were carried out on an ultrathin cobalt wedge covered with a wedge of either Ag or Cr. Such a double wedge structure was finally covered at the top with an Au layer. Under the influence of a coverage structure a shift of the thickness of magnetization reorientation transition from an easy axis into an easy plane was observed. Formation of a CrCo alloy at the interface was deduced. Evolution of the domain structure during the magnetization reversal process was investigated.