Interfacial studies of polymeric spin-valve structures

The interfaces between the organic semiconductor and the magnetic electrodes in organic spin-valves are very important for the efficient injection and extraction of the spin carriers from the organic semiconductor. One of the problems encountered during the fabrication of organic spin-valves is the penetration of the top magnetic electrode into the organic semiconductor layer. This can cause a magnetic “dead” layer which can reduce the efficiency of the spin-valve. This paper investigates the interface between different polymeric semiconductors and the NiFe top layer, including how much the NiFe penetrates into the polymer layer, and whether the magnetic properties of the NiFe change with thickness and different organic layers.

► Polymer structure influences the amount of penetration of the top magnetic electrode.
► Polymer structure affects the magnetic properties of the top electrode.
► Amorphous polymer had smaller surface roughness and less magnetic film penetration.