Abstract
A novel, all-optical method to excite and detect spin waves in magnetic materials is presented. By exploiting the temperature dependence of the magnetic anisotropy, an ultrashort laser pulse is efficiently converted in a picosecond "anisotropy field" pulse that triggers a coherent precession of the magnetization. Recording the temporal evolution of the precessing spins by a time-delayed probe-pulse provides a quantitative method to study locally the magnetic anisotropy, as well as switching and damping phenomena in micromagnetic structures. Applications to nickel and permalloy ( Ni80Fe20) films are discussed, particularly showing the possibility to explore standing spin waves in thin films.
Original language | English |
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Article number | 227201 |
Pages (from-to) | 227201-1/4 |
Number of pages | 4 |
Journal | Physical Review Letters |
Volume | 88 |
Issue number | 22 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2002 |