Néel vector switching by magnetization-dependent layer-resolved spin-orbit torque

Layer-resolved spin-orbit torques offer a route to controlling antiferromagnetic order through local spin-charge conversion. First-principles calculations show that the layer-resolved spin Hall conductivity of the antiferromagnetic topological insulator $\mathrm{Mn{Bi}_{2}{Te}_{4}}$ consists of a magnetization-independent spin Hall term plus two spin anomalous Hall terms that are even in the Néel vector yet evolve with the local magnetic order, while local inversion asymmetry differentiates surface and inner layers. This response enables reversible, field-free switching of the Néel vector in finite-septuple-layer films. Although the magnetization-independent spin Hall term alone can reverse the order, the spin anomalous Hall terms provide magnetization-dependent feedback that redistributes the layer-resolved torques and reshapes the switching trajectory, offering a route to tailoring current-driven switching through layer and interface engineering.

Authors

Publication Details

Journal
arXiv (Cornell University)
Published
2026-10-29
DOI
https://doi.org/10.48550/arxiv.2610.40215
Primary Topic
Magnetic properties of thin films
Type
preprint
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preprint

Néel vector switching by magnetization-dependent layer-resolved spin-orbit torque

Sheng Pan, Weiwei Wang, Jie-Xiang Yu
arXiv (Cornell University)
Magnetic properties of thin films
preprint

Néel vector switching by magnetization-dependent layer-resolved spin-orbit torque

Sheng Pan, Weiwei Wang, Jie-Xiang Yu
preprint en

Abstract

Layer-resolved spin-orbit torques offer a route to controlling antiferromagnetic order through local spin-charge conversion. First-principles calculations show that the layer-resolved spin Hall conductivity of the antiferromagnetic topological insulator $\mathrm{Mn{Bi}_{2}{Te}_{4}}$ consists of a magnetization-independent spin Hall term plus two spin anomalous Hall terms that are even in the Néel vector yet evolve with the local magnetic order, while local inversion asymmetry differentiates surface and inner layers. This response enables reversible, field-free switching of the Néel vector in finite-septuple-layer films. Although the magnetization-independent spin Hall term alone can reverse the order, the spin anomalous Hall terms provide magnetization-dependent feedback that redistributes the layer-resolved torques and reshapes the switching trajectory, offering a route to tailoring current-driven switching through layer and interface engineering.

arXiv (Cornell University)
Magnetic properties of thin films
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