Real-Space Observation of Dipolar Antiferromagnetism in Magnetic Nanowires by Spin-Polarized Scanning Tunneling Spectroscopy

Abstract

We have performed spin-polarized scanning tunneling spectroscopy of dipolar antiferromagnetically coupled Fe nanowires with a height of two atomic layers and an average separation of 8 nm grown on stepped W(110). Domain walls within the nanowires exhibit a significantly reduced width when pinned at structural constrictions. The lateral spin reorientation in the direction perpendicular to the wires has been studied with subnanometer spatial resolution. It is found that the spin canting in the Fe nanowires monotonously increases towards the step edges.