Light modulated magnetism and spin–orbit torque in a heavy metal/ferromagnet heterostructure based on van der Waals-layered ferroelectric materials
Wei Zhang, Aizhuo Zhang, Liangliang Zhang, Ruijuan Cui, Baohua Lv, Zhengyu Xiao, Dong Li, Zhiyong Quan, Xiaohong Xu
Abstract
This study presents experimental evidence of the substantial modulation of ferromagnetism and spin–orbit torque (SOT) efficiency in a Ta/Pt/Co/Ta/In2Se3 heterostructure with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy through light irradiation. An increase in SOT efficiency of ∼20% and a reduction in critical switching current density of ∼52% were observed. The significant modulation primarily originates from the photostrictive effect of a van der Waals-layered ferroelectric In2Se3 layer, which is assisted by thermal effects under light irradiation. The present research provides a potential approach to modulating magnetism and SOT efficiency for energy-efficient spintronic devices.