MAGNETIZATION REVERSAL PROCESS IN TBCO-BIASED SPIN VALVES

The magnetization reversal processes in the free and the pinned layers of TbCo-biased spin valves have been studied in a highly modified tra nsmission electron microscope. Reversal of the free layer in the prese nce of a field antiparallel to the biasing direction proceeds by a com plex domain process with 360 degrees walls forming frequently. In the presence of substantially higher fields, the pinned layer reverses by creep of highly irregular walls through the structure. By studying ima ge grey levels, an estimate of the average orientation of the inductio n vector in the TbCo layer is made. (C) 1996 American Institute of Phy sics.