Spin-flop structure at an antiferromagnetic/ferromagnetic interface: Mn/Fe(100)

The structure and magnetic properties of manganese overlayers on Fe(I 00) substrates are explored using density functional theory. This system represents a model system for studying the magnetic properties of interfaces between a ferromagnet and antiferromagnet. Collinear calculations show that the Mn overlayer adopts an in-plane antiferromagnetic structure. When the constraint of spin collinearity is dropped, a spin-flop state with a nearly perpendicular direction of Fe and Mn moments is found. The exchange coupling constant between Fe and Mn moments is ferromagnetic and stronger than the antiferromagnetic Mn-Mn exchange coupling constant. (C) 2007 Published by Elsevier B.V.