Abstract
Depth-dependent magnetism in MnSb(0001) epitaxial films has been studied by combining experimental methods with different surface specificities: polarized neutron reflectivity, x-ray magnetic circular dichroism (XMCD), x-ray resonant magnetic scattering and spin-polarized low energy electron microscopy (SPLEEM). A native oxide similar to 4.5 nm thick covers air-exposed samples which increases the film's coercivity. HCl etching efficiently removes this oxide and in situ surface treatment of etched samples enables surface magnetic contrast to be observed in SPLEEM. A thin Sb capping layer prevents oxidation and preserves ferromagnetism throughout the MnSb film. The interpretation of Mn L-3,L-2 edge XMCD data is discussed.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 146002 |
Number of pages | 1 |
Journal | Journal of Physics: Condensed Matter |
Volume | 24 |
Issue number | 14 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 1 Apr 2012 |