Spin-Polarised Current

Development of a nano-spin motor

Project details

In order to implement a highly efficient and miniaturised motor or actuator into recent nano-robotics and nano-electro-mechanical systems, a new nano-scale motor will be developed and demonstrated in this project. The proposed nano-spin motor will utilise the rotation of a magnetic moment in a nano-magnet associated with the orientation of spin-polarised electrons through spin torque. This motor enables us to control rotation of a magnetic moment in a nano-scale permanent magnet electrically and can be used as a fundamental block for future nano-system design.

This project will be carried out under the close collaboration with Profs. Yuzo Ohno and Hideo Ohno at the Laboratory for Electronic Intelligent Systems, Research Institute of Electrical Communications, Tohoku University.

Funding agency

JST (Japan Science and Technology Agency, PRESTO (Precursory Research for Embryonic Science and Technology) Program, Search of Nanosystem and Function Emergence, value: JPY 100,000,000 (approx. GBP 700,000)

Starting date

01/10/2009 (for 5.5 years).

Ending date

31/03/2015 (successfully completed).

 

Efficient spin voltage/current generation in a ferromagnet/semiconductor lateral spin-valve

Project details

The goal of this project is to fabricate spintronic devices based on either a pure spin current or a pure spin voltage, which are expected to offer fundamental functions for next-generation nanoelectronic device applications.

This project will be carried out under the close collaboration with Profs. Yuzo Ohno and Hideo Ohno at the Laboratory for Electronic Intelligent Systems, Research Institute of Electrical Communications, Tohoku University. A successful PhD candidate will spend approximately 3 months in Tohoku University to fabricate spintronic nanodevices with using state-of-the-art nano-fabrication facilities.

The interfacial properties as well as transport properties will be characterised by ultra high resolution (1Å) Field Emission Transmission Electron Microscope and low-temperature measurement set-up in collaboration with Prof. Kevin O'Grady in Physics.

Funding agency

EPSRC (Strategic Japanese-UK Cooperative Programme, EP/G051631/1, value: GBP 93,262)

Starting date

01/04/2009 (for 3 years).

Ending date

31/03/2012 (successfully completed).