A multiscale model of the effect of Ir thickness on the static and dynamic properties of Fe/Ir/Fe films

The complex magnetic properties of Fe/Ir/Fe sandwiches are studied using a hierarchical multi-scale model. The approach uses first principles calculations and thermodynamic models to reveal the equilibrium spinwave, magnetization and dynamic demagnetisation properties. Finite temperature calculations show a complex spinwave dispersion and an initially counter-intuitive, increasing exchange stiffness with temperature (a key quantity for device applications) due to the effects of frustration at the interface, which then decreases due to magnon softening. Finally, the demagnetisation process in these structures is shown to be much slower at the interface as compared with the bulk, a key insight to interpret ultrafast laser-induced demagnetization processes in layered or interface materials.