- Accepted Paper
Programmable asymmetric spin-orbit torque switching for spin logic
Phys. Rev. Applied - Accepted 15 September, 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/gv8b-nd7t
Phys. Rev. Applied - Accepted 15 September, 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/gv8b-nd7t
Spin logic devices provide a promising route toward ultralow-power and nonvolatile information processing. In this work, we demonstrate field-free spin-orbit torque (SOT)-induced asymmetric magnetization switching in an in-plane/perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (IMA/PMA) heterostructure, characterized by different critical switching currents under opposite current polarities. Combined experiments and macrospin simulations reveal that the asymmetric switching originates from an in-plane effective field Hy, which breaks the M_yz mirror symmetry of the system. By controlling the magnetization direction of the IMA layer, both the switching polarity and bias direction can be tuned. Building on four distinct types of asymmetric switching behaviors, we realize a reconfigurable spin logic operation within a single Hall-bar device. These results clarify the physical origin of asymmetric magnetization switching and demonstrate an approach for realizing reconfigurable spin logic devices.
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