Dzyaloshinsky–Moriya interaction (DMI)-induced magnetic skyrmion materials

Abstract

A magnetic skyrmion is a particle-like spin swirling object with a nontrivial topology that holds great promise for next-generation information carriers in high-performance spintronic devices. It was discovered in a chiral magnet, MnSi with B20 structure, in 2009 and later confirmed as a common feature of magnetic compounds with Dzyaloshinsky–Moriya interaction (DMI). In this work, we provide fundamental insight into the magnetic properties of skyrmion-hosting materials originating from DMI. The relationship between the point groups of the materials and DMI is introduced; then, the common features of magnetic skyrmions experimentally verified in the magnetization and magnetotransport measurements are highlighted. Finally, other particle-like magnetic configurations in chiral magnets and the crossover with a superconductor are discussed.