Two-dimensional analysis of magnetoimpedance in magnetic/metallic multilayers

This article concerns the effect of the in-plane film size on the magnetoim pedance (MI) characteristics in magnetic/metallic multilayers. The problem is approached by a two-dimensional solution of the Maxwell equations in a s ymmetrical three-layer film. If the edge effect is neglected, the magnetic flux generated by the current flowing through the film is confined within t he outer magnetic layers. In a finite width sandwich, the flux leaks throug h the inner conductor. This process eventually results in a considerable dr op in MI ratio if this width is smaller than the critical flux decay length depending on the effective transverse permeability, layer thickness, and f requency. (C) 2001 American Institute of Physics.