Controlling magnetism by means of electric fields and light is of great interest in view of practical applications in novel spin-dependent technologies. In this seminar I will present the successful modulation of the magnetic properties of light-sensitized magneto-electric and magnetic field-effect devices. The interaction with light is achieved through a GaMnAs /organic-dye hybrid structure while in field effect experiments a voltage is applied between ultra-thin films of FePt and a top gate electrode. Light exposure or electric field application in these devices generates changes in Curie temperature and coercive field that can be detected by magneto-transport measurements. A magnetic response to a controlled stimulus not involving a magnetic field is in both cases intimately related to the properties of the surface of the magnetic material.
Controlling magnetism by means of electric fields and light is of great interest in view of practical applications in novel spin-dependent technologies. In this seminar I will present the successful modulation of the magnetic properties of light-sensitized magneto-electric and magnetic field-effect devices. The interaction with light is achieved through a GaMnAs /organic-dye hybrid structure while in field effect experiments a voltage is applied between ultra-thin films of FePt and a top gate electrode. Light exposure or electric field application in these devices generates changes in Curie temperature and coercive field that can be detected by magneto-transport measurements. A magnetic response to a controlled stimulus not involving a magnetic field is in both cases intimately related to the properties of the surface of the magnetic material.