Quantum transport simulation based on an equation of motion method: An application to current-perpendicular-to-the-plane giant magnetoresistance

K. P. McKenna, L. A. Michez, G. J. Morgan, and B. J. Hickey
Phys. Rev. B 72, 054418 – Published 15 August 2005

Abstract

A tight-binding equation of motion (EOM) method for the simulation of electronic transport in complex, and inhomogeneous systems is presented. Conductance is calculated in the linear response regime where chemical potentials can mimic electrochemical potentials. The technique is first elucidated by application to several simple systems to clarify important issues. A calculation of current-perpendicular-to-the-plane giant magnetoresistance (GMR) in a CoCu multilayer then follows. A 67% GMR is calculated which originates primarily from spin-dependent interface resistances. The advantages of an EOM method are that complicated geometries can be considered, and interactions such as spin-orbit effects or phonons, for example, may be included easily.

    • Received 16 April 2005

    DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.72.054418

    ©2005 American Physical Society

    Authors & Affiliations

    K. P. McKenna, L. A. Michez, G. J. Morgan, and B. J. Hickey

    • School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, United Kingdom

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    Issue

    Vol. 72, Iss. 5 — 1 August 2005

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