Magnon and Optospintronics
In the field of neuromorphic or "brain-inspired" computing, mainly software-based methods are currently used. However, these are reaching their limits, so the focus will be on evaluating different concepts of hardware realization. One promising technology is based on the nonlinear properties of spintronic devices. At IIM, the (nonlinear) dynamic properties of spin textures and magnons in spin waveguides are exploited to combine nonvolatile memories with reconfigurable logic functionalities and to realize clock rates in the THz range. The influence of curvature and topology on the formation of non-collinear spin textures and on their nonlinear dynamics is being explored to extend the capabilities. These studies extend not only to ferromagnetic materials, but also to antiferromagnets with the goal of higher frequencies. In addition, the interaction of magnons with photons and plasmons is being investigated for possible functional programming. Here, the IIM can cover the entire process chain, starting with fabrication of complex materials, ion beam modification, nanofabrication, and dynamic characterization. The broad palette of characterization techniques ranges from time-resolved fs techniques to state-of-the-art resonance methods to spectroscopy methods up to the THz range. In addition to these high-end applications, we use our know-how in magnetic sensing to commercialize low-cost applications for various technologies. The Helmholtz-Innovation Lab FlexiSens is of particular importance here.
Involved departments of the institute:
