Shape-dependent magnetization reversal processes and flux-closure configurations of microstructured epitaxial Fe(110) elements

The magnetization reversal processes and magnetic domain states of microstr uctured epitaxial Fe(110) elements have been investigated by magnetic-force microscopy and longitudinal Kerr hysteresis loop measurements. The charact eristic micromagnetic behavior, such as coercive and nucleation fields, can be tailored by taking advantage of the pronounced uniaxial anisotropy and by varying the shape of the elements. The magnetic domain states of rectang ular and diamond-shaped elements with lateral dimensions of 1.5 mum x 0.5 m um have been investigated after magnetic saturation along the long and shor t axes of the elements. The observed flux-closure domain states have been c ompared with micromagnetic simulations. (C) 2001 American Institute of Phys ics.