Magnetization processes in exchange-biased MnPd/Fe bilayers

The magnetization processes in MnPd/Fe bilayers have been investigated using vibrating sample and torque magnetometry. An analytical model based on coherent magnetic moment rotation has been used to qualitatively explain and describe the magnetization processes. The shift of the hysteresis loop, the increased coercivity, the easy and hard axis behavior as well as the intermediate magnetic state seen in the hysteresis loops are reproduced in the model. However, the magnitude of the bias and the coercivity are not strictly in agreement with the measured values. The discrepancies are attributed to the simplified model which does not take into account the role of magnetic domains and incoherent spin rotation. (C) 2004 American Institute of Physics.