Magnetite Thin Films Grown by Pulsed Electron Deposition for Spintronic Applications

Abstract

We report on the growth and properties of magnetite, Fe3O4, thin films on spinel substrates. Raman studies confirmed growth of single-phase magnetite, but X-ray diffraction analysis reveals a non-uniform structure of the films with a strained pseudomorphic layer. Transport properties of the films are well satisfied to the magnetite ones, but magnetization is significantly reduced than it can be expected for a high quality magnetite. We explain these results within the concept of dead magnetic layer situated close to the film/substrate interface resulting in the coexistence of different magnetic phases within a uniform crystal phase of magnetite.