Dynamic, in situ, magneto-optical studies of non-reciprocal polarisation of Pt, at Co-Pt and Pt-Co interfaces

Abstract In situ measurements of the magneto-optical polar Kerr effect have been made continuously during the deposition of a series of Co and Pt layers. The results indicate an exponentially decaying induced magnetic behaviour in the platinum. However, it is clear that there is asymmetry between the measurements at Co–Pt and Pt–Co interfaces. Data are simulated by electrodynamic theory using bulk optical constants and magneto-optical constants for Co and Pt extracted from experimental data for a single period.