New type of stable particle like states in chiral magnets (Chiral bobbers) (1508.04786v1)

Abstract: We present a new type of a thermodynamically stable magnetic state at interfaces and surfaces of chiral magnets. The state is a soliton solution of micromagnetic equations localized in all three dimensions near a boundary and contains a singularity, but nevertheless has a finite energy. Both features combine to a quasi-particle state for which we expect unusual transport and dynamical properties. It exhibits high thermal stability and thereby can be considered as promising object for fundamental research and practical applications in spintronic devices. We provide arguments that such a state can be found in different B20-type alloys e.g. Mn${1-x}$Fe$_x$Ge, Mn${1-x}$Fe$x$Si, Fe${1-x}$Co$_x$Si.

• The paper demonstrates that chiral bobbers are stable, localized magnetic states emerging near the boundaries of chiral magnets.
• It employs a classical spin model integrating Heisenberg exchange, Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction, and a Zeeman field to determine energy configurations.
• Results indicate that chiral bobbers are energetically favorable compared to skyrmion tubes in specific regimes, highlighting potential for spintronic applications.

New Type of Stable Particle-like States in Chiral Magnets: Chiral Bobbers

The paper "New type of stable particle-like states in chiral magnets (Chiral bobbers)" by Rybakov et al. explores a novel class of solitonic solutions in chiral magnets. These solutions, referred to as chiral bobbers (ChBs), exhibit unique properties distinguished by their three-dimensional localization and inherent singularity at magnetic boundaries. The research investigates the thermodynamic stability and potential for practical applications of these states, particularly in spintronic devices.

Summary and Analysis

Chiral bobbers are presented as stable magnetic configurations localized near boundaries of chiral magnets. They are characterized by containing a magnetic singularity, known in the context of ferromagnets as a Bloch point, and yet possess finite energy. This defies typical expectations for singular magnetic structures. The authors propose that ChBs can arise in materials with Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction (DMI), emphasizing their existence in B20-type alloys such as Mn$_{1-x}$Fe$_x$Ge and Mn$_{1-x}$Fe$_x$Si.

The paper employs a classical spin model to derive the energy configurations and stability conditions of chiral bobbers. Utilizing a Hamiltonian encompassing Heisenberg exchange interactions, DMI, and an external Zeeman field, the paper provides a rigorous micromagnetic analysis. The energy landscapes exhibit the novel chiral bobbers as energetically favorable configurations compared to skyrmion tubes (SkTs) in certain magnetic field and thickness regimes.

Theoretical and Practical Implications

This research holds several implications for theoretical physics and applied materials science:

1. Theoretical Implications: The findings challenge conventional understanding by demonstrating stable particle-like states with localized singularities in three dimensions. This enriches the field-theoretic treatment of solitons, providing insights into non-linear field interactions and stability in chiral magnetic systems.
2. Metastability and Spintronics: The ChB states, due to their high thermal stability and localized configuration, present promising prospects for spintronic technology. The authors suggest potential applications wherein ChBs could function as a medium for data storage or logic operations, benefitting from their peculiar transport properties and response to external stimuli.

Numerical Results and Bold Claims

The paper provides strong numerical results indicating the energy favorability of ChBs over SkTs across a range of parameters. Particularly, it is highlighted that in most parameter regimes within the conical phase, ChBs are energetically more favorable than SkTs. The authors back their claims with phase diagrams and energy calculations, presenting a well-defined thermodynamic landscape for these novel magnetic states.

Future Directions and Speculations

Looking forward, the paper suggests that chiral bobbers might be experimentally observed in sufficiently refined conditions through techniques like off-axis electron holography. Additionally, the paper speculates on the potential dynamical and transport characteristics of ChBs, which remain an open field for experimental verification and theoretical exploration.

In summary, this work presents a detailed micromagnetic analysis of a new category of particle-like states in chiral magnets, paving the way for further theoretical and experimental investigations into their properties and potential technological applications. The introduction of chiral bobbers as stable soliton solutions contributes significantly to understanding complex magnetic systems and their applicability in advanced spintronics.