Fe3O4 Epitaxial Thin Films and Heterostructures: Magnetotransport and Magnetic Properties

Abstract

In this article, we review our recent research on Fe3O4 epitaxial thin films and Fe3O4/MgO/Fe epitaxial heterostructures. More specifically, we report on the magnetotransport properties of Fe3O4 epitaxial films in a wide range of film thicknesses and temperatures, focusing on the anomalous, planar and ordinary Hall effects. We also summarize our insight on the origin of the enhanced magnetic moment found in ultra-thin magnetite films (thickness t < 5 nm). Finally, our work on the growth, and structural and magnetic characterization of heteroepitaxial Fe3O4/MgO/Fe trilayers is presented.