8 research outputs found
Ferromagnetic Semiconductors: Moving Beyond (Ga,Mn)As
The recent development of MBE techniques for growth of III-V ferromagnetic
semiconductors has created materials with exceptional promise in spintronics,
i.e. electronics that exploit carrier spin polarization. Among the most
carefully studied of these materials is (Ga,Mn)As, in which meticulous
optimization of growth techniques has led to reproducible materials properties
and ferromagnetic transition temperatures well above 150 K. We review progress
in the understanding of this particular material and efforts to address
ferromagnetic semiconductors as a class. We then discuss proposals for how
these materials might find applications in spintronics. Finally, we propose
criteria that can be used to judge the potential utility of newly discovered
ferromagnetic semiconductors, and we suggest guidelines that may be helpful in
shaping the search for the ideal material.Comment: 37 pages, 4 figure