Nonvolatile Reconfigurable Synthetic Antiferromagnetic Devices Induced by Spin-Orbit Torque for Multifunctional In-Memory Computing
The proliferation of intelligent edge devices demands compact, low-power hardware capable of dynamically switching between sensing, logic, and learning tasks-a versatility that traditional multi-chip solutions fundamentally lack. Here, we demonstrate a reconfigurable spin-orbit torque (SOT) device based on an FeTb/Ru/Co synthetic antiferromagnetic (SAF) heterostructure. By modulating the input current amplitude, the device dynamically switches between two distinct operating modes: saturation and activation. In the saturation regime (>80 mA), deterministic magnetization reversal enables Boolean logic operations (AND, NOR). In the activation regime (<80 mA), gradual, non-volatile conductance modulation emulates synaptic plasticity. Benefiting from the strong antiferromagnetic coupling and near-zero net magnetization of the SAF structure, all operations are achieved without external magnetic fields. This single-device, dual-mode reconfigurable architecture establishes a new paradigm for high-density, low-power, multifunctional in-memory computing units, with promise for advancing adaptive edge computing chips.
Authors
- Mingxu Song (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7795-8773)
- Z. Q. Zhu (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7175-3307)
Institutions
- National University of Defense Technology (CN)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Nanomaterials
- Published
- 2026-04-07
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.3390/nano16070444
- Primary Topic
- Magnetic properties of thin films
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00
Funders
- National Natural Science Foundation of China
- National University of Defense Technology