Co/Pt Multilayer System: Exploring Magnetic Properteis for Advanced Applications

Recent research has focused on layered systems containing 3d,4d, or 5d transition metals for various magnetic applications, such as high-density recording media and magnetic random access memories. In particular, Co/Pt(111) multilayer structures have attracted considerable interest due to their exceptional attributes, which include remarkable thermal stability, low critical spin switching current density, and perpendicular magnetization characteristics. Despite the considerable attention these systems have received, there are still significant gaps in our understanding of their magnetic properties, particularly with respect to magnetic anisotropy and the distinct roles played by individual atoms within the system. Therefore, we carried out a systematic analysis of the magnetic properties of Co/Pt(111) multilayers using density functional theory, taking into account the spin-orbit interaction. We examined the changes in magnetic anisotropy energy in terms of magnetic crystalline anisotropy and magnetic shape anisotropy based on the number of Co and Pt layers. The main reason for the changes in physical properties with varying Co/Pt thickness is attributed to interfacial effects. By precisely controlling individual layer thicknesses, we have demonstrated the potential to tailor magnetic properties for specific applications