Spin-polarised currents and magnetic domain walls

Electrical currents flowing in ferromagnetic materials are spin-polarised as a result of the spin-dependent band structure. When the spatial direction of the polarisation changes, in a domain structure, the electrons must somehow accommodate the necessary change in direction of their spin angular momentum as they pass through the wall. Reflection, scattering, or a transfer of angular momentum onto the lattice are all possible outcomes, depending on the circumstances. This gives rise to a variety of different physical effects, most importantly a contribution to the electrical resistance caused by the wall, and a motion of the wall driven by the spin-polarised current. Historical and recent research on these topics is reviewed. TableDownload CSVDisplay Table