Intrinsic Néel Antiferromagnetic Multimeronic Spin Textures in Ultrathin Films

Abstract

Topological antiferromagnetism is a vibrant and captivating research field, generating considerable enthusiasm with the aim of identifying topologically protected magnetic states of key importance in the hybrid realm of topology, magnetism, and spintronics. While topological antiferromagnetic (AFM) solitons bear various advantages with respect to their ferromagnetic cousins, their observation is scarce. Utilizing first-principles simulations, here we predict new chiral particles in the realm of AFM topological magnetism, exchange-frustrated multimeronic spin textures hosted by a Néel magnetic state, arising universally in single Mn layers directly grown on an Ir(111) surface or interfaced with Pd-based films. These nanoscale topological structures are intrinsic; i.e. they form in a single AFM material, can carry distinct topological charges, and can combine in various multimeronic sequences with enhanced stability against external magnetic fields. We envision the frustrated Néel AFM multimerons as exciting highly sought after AFM solitons having the potential to be utilized in novel spintronic devices hinging on nonsynthetic AFM quantum materials, further advancing the frontiers of nanotechnology and nanophysics.