THz spintronics with antiferromagnetic heterostructures
Abstract
Terahertz (THz) radiation lies in the frequency gap between the infrared and microwaves, a range that has attracted increasing attention in information and communication technologies in the past decade. However, THz communications have been difficult to develop because technical challenges in generating, detecting, and processing signals in the THz electromagnetic spectrum. In this project, we aim to experimentally approach the related physics questions in THz sciences from a spintronics perspective using antiferromagnetic materials and heterostructures. Antiferromagnets provide an ideal platform to investigate THz spintronics, primarily owing to their intrinsic eigenfrequencies lying in the THz spectrum. Our approach to study THz spintronics in antiferromagnets is through the realization of antiferromagnetic heterostructures with oxides, ferromagnets, and heavy metals, to construct various on demand “spin current circuits”, and study the dynamic injection, transmission, and detection of THz spin currents. We aim to experimentally investigate the feasibility of generating and manipulating antiferromagnetic magnons by spin orbit torques across the interfaces with antiferromagnetic surfaces. We will also study the antiferromagnetic magnon behavior and its role in rectifying, filtering, and transforming THz spin signals, and finally to realize proof of concept THz auto oscillator and rectifier using a broad range of antiferromagnetic materials and structures.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jan 14, 2022
- Source ID
- FA95501910254
Entities
People
- Wei Zhang
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- Oakland University
- United States Air Force