Domain structures in ultrathin magnetic films

Abstract

Domain structures appear in ultrathin magnetic films, if an easy-axis anisotropy, favouring the direction perpendicular to the film, overcomes the shape anisotropy. We will study the nature of the magnetic ground state and how the different parameters influence the domain structure. Both Ising and Heisenberg spins will be considered: in the latter case, a reorientation phase transition may take place. Domains are expected to appear just before such transition. Domain structures at finite temperature will be described in terms of a two dimensional array of domain walls, whose behaviour resembles a liquid crystal.