Theoretical investigation of magnetization configuration and reversal processes in exchange-coupled multilayers

Analytic study of magnetization profiles and reversal processes Is performed in exchange-coupled double and trilayers (ECDL and ECTL) corresponding to mixed parallel and perpendicular anisotropy structures (Mi/Mj) and (M₁/M₁/M₂) where MI corresponds to planar magnetization layers NdCo or GdFeCo and MI are perpendicular magnetization layers TbFeCo or DyFeCo. The changes of the profiles with magnetic parameters of the layers are calculated from a variation! method of the magnetic energies in a continuum model in ECDL and from a noncontinuum model method in ECTL. The effective exchange field induced at the interface by the capping liner Mi for thickness higher than a critical value is calculated and its influence on the reversal process of the "perpendicular" layer Mz is determined in ECDL. Both the continuous and noncontinuous models are useful to optimize magnetooptical structures and the results from these models are compared.