Theory of magnetic superlattices: Interlayer exchange coupling and magnetoresistance of transition metal structures (invited)

Abstract

Theoretical calculations and models to explain two unusual features of Fe/Cr magnetically layered structures are presented: (1) Strong antiferromagnetic (AF) couplings between Fe layers separated by Cr layers have been found in Fe/Cr/Fe sandwiches and Fe/Cr superlattices. These AF couplings are too strong to be accounted for by dipolar interactions and have to be ascribed to exchange interactions through the Cr layers. The interlayer exchange coupling from numerical calculations of the electronic structure of Fe/Cr superlattices based on the local density approximation is derived. (2) Recently, giant magnetoresistance effects have been found in Fe/Cr magnetically layered structures for currents in the plane of the layers. The spin‐dependent scattering at the Fe/Cr interfaces that comes from interface roughness, as well as that in the bulk of the layers are considered. The resistivity of these magnetic superlattices are calculated by adapting the quantum treatment of the electrical conductivity of ultrathin metallic films. We find the resistivity when the Fe moments in adjacent layers are parallel and antiparallel, and compare the results with experimental data.