Physics Spring Colloquium- Putting a spin on next generation transistors

Dr. Weigang Wang, Department of Physics - University of Arizona

When

3 to 4 p.m., April 10, 2020

Where

Abstract:

In most electronic devices we have only utilized the charge carried by electrons, while ignoring the other inherent property, the spin. Spintronics makes explicit use of the spin degree of freedom of electrons to achieve new functionalities. A unique advantage of spintronics is its nonvolatility, which is particularly critical for future digital devices utilizing ultrafast transistors. I will start my talk with an introduction on fundamental spintronics phenomena such as the giant magnetoresistance effect and coherent tunneling of electrons in epitaxial thin film heterostructures. I will also describe how complex nanostructures are fabricated in my lab. Then I will focus on the exploration of new phenomena that can be controlled by electric fields, driven by the premise that voltage-controlled switching could be far more efficient therefore could eventually lead to ultra-low energy spintronics. I will describe the approaches to increase the magnetoresistance and thermal stability in perpendicular magnetic tunnel junctions by employing new materials and new structures. Finally, I will talk about our recent research where the antiferromagnetism, in additional to the conventional ferromagnetism, can be controlled by external electric fields in a very unique setting. 

Zoom Meeting: https://arizona.zoom.us/j/515661458