Dynamically coupled trilayer ASI via Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction

Artificial spin ice (ASI) is a magnetic system that involves a lattice of nanomagnets arranged in a geometric lattice. ASIs have potential applications as microwave devices [1] and fundamental elements for unconventional computing [2]. To be functional, ASI geometries must be optimized for stronger dynamic coupling between nanomagnets [3]. Vertical coupling in 3D or 2.5D geometries [4] is appealing because the nanomagnets can be positioned in close proximity, enhancing their dipolar coupling [5]. We numerically investigate the dynamics of a trilayer ASI, where each element in the arrangement is a trilayer composed of two nanoislands of different materials. Because spin waves are directional, we find that the inclusion of Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction (DMI) enhances dynamic coupling when waves propagate in opposite directions in each layer. This means that in each trilayer, the spin waves propagate in a convective fashion. These results showcase that three-dimensional stacking on nanomagnets leads to a stronger dynamic coupling, which can lead to the realization of functional devices for information technology.

References

[1] S. Gliga, E. Iacocca, and O. G. Heinonen, APL Materials 8, 040911 (2020)

[2] K. D. Stenning, et al., Nature Commun. 25, 7377 (2024)

[3] S. Lendinez, et al., Nature Commun. 14, 3419 (2023)

[4] R. Sultana, et al., A. Appl. Phys. 138, 061101 (2025)

[5] T. Dion, et al., Nature Commun. 15, 4077 (2024)