Correlation of the structural properties of a Pt seed layer with the perpendicular magnetic anisotropy features of full Heusler-based Co2FeAl/MgO/Co2Fe6B2 junctions via a 12-inch scale Si wafer process

Abstract

We elucidated the interfacial-perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (i-PMA) features of full Heusler-based Co2FeAl/MgO/Co2Fe6B2 magnetic-tunnel-junctions as functions of the structural properties of the Pt seed layer including its thickness and ex situ annealing temperature. All of the samples were prepared in a 12-inch silicon wafer process for real industry applications. The observations of the M-H loops emphasize that a thinner Pt seed layer and a high ex situ annealing temperature enhance the surface roughness of the seed layer, providing better i-PMA characteristics. HR-TEM images of the samples were evaluated to understand the structural effects of thin and thick Pt seed layers. (C) 2013 AIP Publishing LLC.