Topological Hall effect in SrRuO3 thin films and heterostructures

Abstract

Abstract Transition metal oxides hold a wide spectrum of fascinating properties endowed by the strong electron correlations. In 4d and 5d oxides, exotic phases can be realized with the involvement of strong spin–orbit coupling (SOC), such as unconventional magnetism and topological superconductivity. Recently, topological Hall effects (THEs) and magnetic skyrmions have been uncovered in SrRuO3 thin films and heterostructures, where the presence of SOC and inversion symmetry breaking at the interface are believed to play a key role. Realization of magnetic skyrmions in oxides not only offers a platform to study topological physics with correlated electrons, but also opens up new possibilities for magnetic oxides using in the low-power spintronic devices. In this review, we discuss recent observations of THE and skyrmions in the SRO film interfaced with various materials, with a focus on the electric tuning of THE. We conclude with a discussion on the directions of future research in this field.