Deconvoluting reversal modes in exchange-biased nanodots

Ensemble-averaged exchange bias in arrays of Fe/FeF₂ nanodots has been deconvoluted into local, microscopic bias separately experienced by nanodots going through different reversal modes. The relative fraction of dots in each mode can be modified by exchange bias. Single-domain dots exhibit a simple loop shift, while vortex state dots have asymmetric shifts in the vortex nucleation and annihilation fields, manifesting local incomplete domain walls in these nanodots as magnetic vortices with tilted cores.