The role of W seed and spacer layers on the magnetic properties of Co/Pt multilayers

Abstract

The selection of seed and spacer layers is critical in influencing the magnetic properties of thin films, where these layers impact the microstructure, interface quality, and overall magnetic behavior of the thin films. The magnetic properties of Co/Pt multilayers have been investigated where the choice of seed and spacer layers is crucial for tailoring their magnetic properties. These layers influence the interfacial structure, and electronic environment, all of which contribute to variations in the effective demagnetizing field, g-factor, saturation magnetization, and perpendicular surface anisotropy constants. Ferromagnetic resonance has been used to investigate the enhancement of the Gilbert damping parameter, where the damping parameter is higher for the Cu/Co/Pt multilayers across the entire Co thickness range. In contrast, the presence of W layers on both sides of the Co layer leads to a reduction in the damping parameter. The higher spin-mixing conductance in the Co/Pt structure is linked to stronger SOC and enhanced orbital hybridization at the Co/Pt interface. As a consequence of their effects on spin-orbit interactions, spin-pumping efficiency, and interfacial quality, our results emphasize the critical role that interface characteristics play in improving damping in Co/Pt systems.