Micromagnetic structure in multilayer films with moderate perpendicular anisotropy

Micromagnetic simulations have been performed in order to obtain deeper ins ight into the domain structures within multilayer films, as they are expect ed to differ from those of single films. These 2D calculations have been do ne in the case of multilayers exhibiting a moderate perpendicular anisotrop y, with no indirect exchange coupling between the magnetic layers, where a "weak stripe" domain structure develops. First, these results are compared quantitatively to the very detailed experimental data available in the lite rature on the (Co/Au)(N) system. More generally, the nucleation of a stripe pattern in multilayers is discussed as a function of the magnetic paramete rs and the number of magnetic layers in the stack. Compared to a single fil m, two main differences appear in the equilibrium domain period and the mag netization profiles. The physical origin of these effects is discussed.