Exchange bias-like behavior due to hidden local magnetic state in a Weyl semimetal

Abstract

Magnetic Weyl semimetals, which couple magnetic order with topological features, have emerged as promising candidates for advanced topological-materials-based applications. The switching of magnetization and the driving of domain wall motion play key roles in developing such applications. In this study, we suggest that a type of hard-magnetic nuclei dominates the magnetic reversal and induces an exchange bias-like behavior with a prior magnetic history in the bulk Co3Sn2S2 Weyl semimetal. The sign change of the exchange bias-like behavior can be realized by controlling the orientation of such hard-magnetic nuclei. Remarkably, these nuclei can retain their magnetic orientation at a temperature well above the Curie temperature of this material, suggesting the existence of a local magnetic state with non-zero magnetization and high stability. This local state is potentially related to the spin-orbit polaron reported in this system. Our study offers a new scenario for manipulating the magnetic reversal and offers new insights into the magnetism in this Weyl system.