Skyrmions: Fundamentals, Dynamics, and Prospects for Spintronic Applications

Magnetic skyrmions are fascinating, particle-like spin textures that are topologically nontrivial, and they've been drawing a lot of attention for their potential in both fundamental physics and low-energy spintronics applications. In this paper, we take a closer look at the theoretical underpinnings of skyrmions, the various mechanisms that help stabilize and control them-like the Dzyaloshinskii–Moriya interaction, magnetic anisotropy, and dipolar interactions. We also explore how these skyrmions are realized and imaged experimentally, their dynamics when driven by current (including the skyrmion Hall effect), and the different methods for nucleation, annihilation, and manipulation. Additionally, we discuss innovative device concepts such as racetrack memory and logic. Our review synthesizes findings across different material classes-from noncentrosymmetric bulk chiral magnets to interfacial multilayers and ferri/antiferromagnets-and highlights the key challenges and future directions in this exciting field. Plus, we've included a comprehensive reference list with over 30 sources that represent the breadth of research in this area.