Ferromagnetic particles with the configuration anisotropy for straintronic memory cells

Abstract The quasi-single-domain states in micron-sized triangular-shaped particles of two types: with the relatively small concavity of the side and with the maximal concavity of the side are studied by magnetic-force microscopy and numerical calculations. The external magnetic field required for switching the particles from one stable magnetic state to another is determined. The mechanical stresses for switching between stable magnetic states are estimated numerically. The modified theory for magnetic tunneling nanocontacts is used to calculate the spin-polarized conductance and tunnel magnetoresistance in a MagnetoElectric Random Access Memory cell consisting of ferromagnetic particles with different orientations of the quasi-uniform magnetization.