Skyrmions : Topological Structures, Properties, and Applications

The skyrmion, a recently discovered type of domain structure, has interesting topological structure and properties which promise to have a major impact in physics and materials science, thereby leading to development of exciting new electronic and magnetic devices. This book showcases the state of the art in this rapidly growing area, highlighting its importance for the fundamental understanding of magnetism and transport as well as technological applications. The contents begin with a comprehensive look at topological structures and magnetic and transport properties. From there, the chapters turn to experimental studies, including materials and observations, and emerging applications.

"The book reviews all the aspects of recent developments in research on skyrmions, from the presentation of the observation and characterization techniques to the description of physical properties and expected applications. It will be of great use for all scientists working in this field."  – Albert Fert, 2007 Nobel Laureate in Physics (from the Foreword)

A skyrmion is a tiny region of reversed magnetization – quasiparticles since they are not present except in a magnetic state, and also give rise to physics that cannot be described by Maxwell’s equations. These particles are fascinating subjects for theoretical and experimental studies. Moreover, as a new type of magnetic domain structure with special topological structures, skyrmions feature outstanding magnetic and transport properties and may well have applications in data storage and other advanced spintronic devices, as readers will see in this book. Chapters address the relationships between physical properties of condensed matter, such as the AB effect, Berry phase effect, quantum Hall effect, and topological insulators. Overall, it provides a timely introduction to the fundamental aspects and possible applications of magnetic skyrmions to an interdisciplinary audience from condensed matter physics, chemistry, and materials science.