Magnetization of small arrays of interacting single-domain particles

Abstract

We have prepared tailored small arrays of single-domain Ni nanomagnets exhibiting an easy-axis perpendicular to the substrate surface. Using ballistic Hall micromagnetometry we probe the magnetization under different tilt angles. For an array of 13 nanomagnets with 700 nm spacing, we observe distinct plateau values in the hysteresis loop indicating the stepwise switching of these particles. The observed hierarchy of reversal comes close to a model on the basis of the magnetostatic interparticle interaction.