Magnetic instability induced by tunnel current in single Co nanoparticles

Abstract

Measurements of magnetic hysteresis loops in single Co nanoparticles at dilution refrigerator temperatures are presented. The nanoparticles are in electric contact with bulk Al leads via tunnel junctions. The tunnel current versus magnetic field displays a magnetic hysteresis loop. The magnetic switching field is reduced by current, and the magnetization of the nanoparticle can be switched by applying a voltage pulse, demonstrating that the magnetic stability of the nanoparticle is diminished by electron transport. Additional transitions and random switches of magnetization can be driven by large currents.