COMPLEMENTARY IMAGING OF GRANULAR CO-AG FILMS WITH MAGNETOOPTICAL INDICATOR FILM TECHNIQUE AND MAGNETIC FORCE MICROSCOPY

A magneto-optical indicator him (MOIF) technique and magnetic force mi croscopy were used for visualization and direct real-time experimental study of the magnetization processes of magnetic Co90Ag10 granular fi lms. It is shown that the magnetization reversal of the as-deposited f ilms follows a specific two-step course. The first stage is characteri zed by gradual spin rotation to large angles up to 90 degrees without domain formation. Further magnetization reversal proceeds by the nucle ation and motion of zigzag-shaped domain walls. The dendritic structur e of the domain walls was observed using both techniques. Also tracks of magnetic inhomogeneities remaining behind moving zigzag-shaped doma in walls was revealed by MOIF. (C) 1996 American Institute of Physics.