Saturation magnetization modulated stripes embedded in a ferromagnetic matrix

Lateral patterning of thin magnetic films allows structuring on dimensions below certain intrinsic length scales like the domain wall width. By means of magnetic patterning using local ion irradiation periodic patterns of stripes with alternating saturation magnetization value were created in a ferromagnetic Ni80Fe20 matrix. The domain configuration during magnetization reversal was investigated using Kerr microscopy, scanning transmission x-ray microscopy, as well as Lorentz microscopy. The reversal mechanisms in the stripe panels are influenced by the domain configuration of the surrounding film. Starting from 1 um stripe width, changes in the micromagnetic behavior with respect to decreasing width are investigated. Special emphasis is put on the formation of 180∘ walls between adjacent stripes with different saturation magnetization, on the orientation of the magnetization inside the stripes with respect to the stripe axis orientation, as well as on the transition of the patterned material to an effective medium.