Spin transfer and current-induced switching in antiferromagnets

Abstract

We present theoretical description of the precessional switching processes induced by simultaneous application of spin-polarized current and external magnetic field to antiferromagnetic component of the "pinned" layer. We found stability ranges of different static and dynamic regimes. We showed the possibility of steady current-induced precession of antiferromagnetic vector with frequency that linearly depends on the bias current. Furthermore, we found an optimal duration of current pulse required for switching between different orientations of antiferromagnetic vector and current and field dependence of switching time. Our results reveal the difference between dynamics of ferro- and antiferromagnets subjected to spin transfer torques.