image: Laser heating generates a temperature gradient in the MnPt layer, which induces spin currents (green arrows) that are injected into the FePt layer. These spin currents generate spin torque, which assists in magnetization reversal. While conventional HAMR relies solely on thermally induced changes in magnetization, this study demonstrates that spin currents can serve as an additional means of controlling magnetization.
Credit: Shinji Isogami, National Institute for Materials Science; Yichun Fan, Seagate Technology
Background
In conventional heat-assisted magnetic recording (HAMR), a laser is used to locally heat the recording medium to facilitate data writing. However, the thermal energy applied is largely dissipated within the medium and does not contribute directly to the recording efficiency. Moreover, this high-temperature process consumes substantial energy and raises concerns regarding the magnetic and physical degradation of the medium, especially under repeated use.
Key Findings
The research team focused on the temperature gradient generated within the recording medium during laser irradiation. They developed a novel structure by inserting an antiferromagnetic manganese-platinum (MnPt) layer beneath the iron-platinum (FePt) recording layer. This structure achieved approximately 35% improvement in recording efficiency compared to conventional HAMR.
This enhancement stems from spin currents generated by the temperature gradient, which induce spin torque that assists magnetic switching—effectively augmenting the conventional thermal assist effect. Furthermore, the study demonstrated that spin torque can be applied to hard disk drives (HDDs), paving the way for a new class of recording technologies.
Future Outlook
Building on these results, the team aims to apply the technology to FePt nanogranular media and advance TST-HAMR as a practical recording method for future HDDs. This could lead to higher-capacity and more energy-efficient HDDs, contributing to the advancement of next-generation storage technologies.
Other Information
These research findings were published online in Acta Materialia on January 13, 2025.
Journal
Acta Materialia
Method of Research
Experimental study
Subject of Research
Not applicable
Article Title
Thermal spin-torque heat-assisted magnetic recording
Article Publication Date
13-Jan-2025