Coherent magnetic semiconductor nanodot arrays

• Main Authors: Xiu Faxian, Zhou Yi, Wang Kang, Beyermann Ward, Wang Yong, Wang Ya, Zou Jin
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: SpringerOpen 2011-01-01
• Series: Nanoscale Research Letters
• Online Access: http://www.nanoscalereslett.com/content/6/1/134

<p>Abstract</p> <p>In searching appropriate candidates of magnetic semiconductors compatible with mainstream Si technology for future spintronic devices, extensive attention has been focused on Mn-doped Ge magnetic semiconductors. Up to now, lack of reliable methods to obtain high-quality MnGe nanostructures with a desired shape and a good controllability has been a barrier to make these materials practically applicable for spintronic devices. Here, we report, for the first time, an innovative growth approach to produce self-assembled and coherent magnetic MnGe nanodot arrays with an excellent reproducibility. Magnetotransport experiments reveal that the nanodot arrays possess giant magneto-resistance associated with geometrical effects. The discovery of the MnGe nanodot arrays paves the way towards next-generation high-density magnetic memories and spintronic devices with low-power dissipation.</p>