Magnetic anisotropy and magnetization reversal in Co/Cu multilayers nanowires

The Co/Cu multilayer nanowires fabricated in an array using anodized aluminum oxide (AAO) template by electrodeposition method, have been investigated. It has been observed that the magnetization reversal mode and magnetic anisotropy depend upon the Co and Cu layer thicknesses. Magnetization reversal occurs by curling mode at around Co = 400 nm and Cu = 10 nm, while for Co = 30 nm and Cu = 60 nm, magnetization reversal occurs by nucleation mode. A change of magnetic anisotropy from out of plane to in plane is observed when thickness of Cu layer t(Cu) = 60 nm and that of Co t(Co) = 30 nm. Magnetic anisotropy is lost when thickness of the Co layer t(Co) = 400 nm and that of Cu t(Cu) = 10 nm. Magnetic properties have been explained by the competition among between shape anisotropy, magnetostatic interactions and magnetocrystalline anisotropy. Magnetic properties can be tuned accordingly depending upon the thickness of the Co and Cu nanodisks. (C) 2012 American Institute of Physics. [doi:10.1063/1.3679862]