Layer-dependent spin-orbit torque switching of Néel vector in a van der Waals antiferromagnet

Haoran Guo, Zhongchong Lin, Jinhao Lu, Chao Yun (), Guanghui Han, Shoutong Sun, Yu Wu, Wenyun Yang, Dongdong Xiao, Zhifeng Zhu, Licong Peng, Yu Ye, Yanglong Hou (), Jinbo Yang () and Zhaochu Luo ()
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Haoran Guo: Peking University
Zhongchong Lin: Peking University
Jinhao Lu: Peking University
Chao Yun: Peking University
Guanghui Han: Peking University
Shoutong Sun: Peking University
Yu Wu: Peking University
Wenyun Yang: Peking University
Dongdong Xiao: Chinese Academy of Sciences
Zhifeng Zhu: ShanghaiTech University
Licong Peng: Peking University
Yu Ye: Peking University
Yanglong Hou: Sun Yat-Sen University
Jinbo Yang: Peking University
Zhaochu Luo: Peking University

Nature Communications, 2025, vol. 16, issue 1, 1-9

Abstract: Abstract Two-dimensional antiferromagnets that combine the dual advantages of van der Waals (vdW) and antiferromagnetic materials, provide an unprecedented platform to explore emergent spin-related phenomena. However, electrical manipulation of Néel vectors in vdW antiferromagnets —the cornerstone of antiferromagnetic spintronics— remains challenging. Here, we report layer-dependent electrical switching of the Néel vector in an A-type vdW antiferromagnet (Fe, Co)3GaTe2 (FCGT) with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy. The Néel vector of FCGT with odd-number vdW layers can be 180° reversed via spin-orbit torques. Furthermore, we achieve field-free switching in an all-vdW, all-antiferromagnet heterostructure of FCGT/CrSBr in which the noncollinear interfacial spin texture breaks the mirror symmetry. Our results establish layer-controlled spin symmetries and interfacial spin engineering as universal paradigms for manipulating antiferromagnetic order, paving the way for realising reliable and efficient vdW antiferromagnetic devices.

Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-63966-2

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