Spin-polarized ion scattering spectroscopy as a novel analytical method of magnetic structure at outermost surfaces

We developed spin-polarized ion scattering spectroscopy (SP-ISS). In SP-ISS, spin-polarized 4He+ ions are projected onto a sample surface, and the kinetic energy of scattered ions, which survive in neutralization, are analyzed. We observed that scattered ion yield depends on spin of the incident He+ ions on an Fe(1 0 0) surface exposed to an oxygen atmosphere. Furthermore, we revealed that the spin dependence of scattered ion yield reflects the spin state of target atoms. Thus, SP-ISS may be capable of analyzing the spin state of outermost surfaces with element selectivity.