Current-induced torques in magnetic materials

Arne Brataas, Andrew D. Kent, Hideo Ohno

    Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

    Abstract

    The magnetization of a magnetic material can be reversed by using electric currents that transport spin angular momentum. In the reciprocal process a changing magnetization orientation produces currents that transport spin angular momentum. Understanding how these processes occur reveals the intricate connection between magnetization and spin transport, and can transform technologies that generate, store or process information via the magnetization direction. Here we explain how currents can generate torques that affect the magnetic orientation and the reciprocal effect in a wide variety of magnetic materials and structures. We also discuss recent state-of-the-art demonstrations of current-induced torque devices that show great promise for enhancing the functionality of semiconductor devices.

    Original languageEnglish (US)
    Pages (from-to)372-381
    Number of pages10
    JournalNature Materials
    Volume11
    Issue number5
    DOIs
    StatePublished - May 2012

    ASJC Scopus subject areas

    • General Chemistry
    • General Materials Science
    • Condensed Matter Physics
    • Mechanics of Materials
    • Mechanical Engineering

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