Temperature stability of (Pt/Co)3/IrMn multilayers

Abstract

The effect of annealing on the structural stability of (Pt2nm/Co0.4 nm)3/IrMn7nm multilayers has been investigated using atom probe tomography. The composition of individual layers was measured after annealing at 300, 400, 500, and 700 °C. While results show that the (Pt/Co)3/IrMn stacking sequence is preserved up to 400 °C, there is an almost complete destruction of the multilayered structure when annealing at higher temperatures (500 and 700 °C). Co layers no more alternate with Pt-rich layers. The whole stack is transformed into an IrCo/PtMn bilayer. These results are interpreted on the basis of atomic mobilities and chemical affinities. Diffusion of Co and Mn is shown to become important when annealing temperature approaches 500 °C. Results are well accounted for by thermodynamics arguments considering the Co-Ir and Pt-Mn phase diagrams.