Magnetic structures and magnetization processes in arrays of closely packed
Ni nanowires (length l=1 mum, diameter d=40 nm, and period: 100 nm) are in
vestigated by means of micromagnetic modelling. The simulations are perform
ed with an algorithm based on the finite element method combined with the b
oundary element method which allows for the accurate calculation of magneto
static interactions. Magnetization states of Ni nanowires at zero field are
calculated. Only few, simple magnetization configurations result to be sta
ble. Transient states of the magnetization indicate that magnetization reve
rsal occurs by means of nucleation at the ends of the particles and subsequ
ent soliton propagation. Hysteresis loops of up to 16 interacting nanowires
are simulated. It turns out that magnetostatic interactions between the wi
res have a significant influence on the switching field. (C) 2001 American
Institute of Physics.