Magnetic proximity effect in magnetic-insulator/heavy-metal heterostructures across the compensation temperature

Abstract

Nonmagnetic heavy metals can develop a magnetic moment due to the proximity of a magnetic layer. Here, the sign of the proximity effect in Pt and W grown on the ferrimagnetic insulator Dy${}_{3}$Fe${}_{5}$O${}_{12}$ (DyIG) is examined. Polarized neutron reflectometry indicates the importance of a clean metal/garnet interface, and shows that the proximity effect in Pt/DyIG is positive above and below the DyIG compensation temperature, indicating a different origin compared to that of Pt adjacent to a ferrimagnetic metal alloy.