The magnetization process and magnetoresistance of exchange-spring bilayer systems

A perfectly reversible magnetization process was observed in NiFe/CoSm bilayers. During this process, the magnetic moments in the soft magnetic layer (NiFe) are pinned at the interface with the hard magnetic layer (CoSm), so that the direction of the magnetic moment distributes successively like a Bloch wall. The characteristic reversible magnetization process is explained by an atomic layer model. The magnetoresistance also exhibits a reversible change reflecting the magnetization process. The basic feature of the reversible magnetoresistance curve is understood to be anisotropic magnetoresistance.