MAGNETIC-STRUCTURE OF OXIDIZED FE(001)

The combination of spin-polarization detection with core-level photoemission to give spin-polarized electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis provides new information on the oxidation of an iron surface. During the initial stage of oxidation the predominant phase is of a ferrimagnetic -Fe2O3 form. An observed antiferromagnetic coupling of this oxide with the iron substrate is attributed to a superexchange interaction, providing evidence for a possible site-exchange mechanism during the initial oxidation. Annealing transforms this oxide into an antiferromagnetic FexO form which is also present at the initial stage. © 1990 The American Physical Society.