Switching the magnetization in quantum antiferromagnets

Abstract

The orientation of the order parameter of quantum magnets can be used to store information in a dense and efficient way. Switching this order parameter corresponds to writing data. To understand how this can be done, we study a precessional reorientation of the sublattice magnetization in an (an)isotropic quantum antiferromagnet induced by an applied magnetic field. For this intriguing nonequilibrium issue, we introduce a description including the leading quantum and thermal fluctuations, namely time-dependent Schwinger boson mean-field theory, because this theory allows us to describe both ordered phases and the phases in between them, as is crucial for switching. An activation energy has to be overcome, requiring a minimum applied field ht that is given essentially by the spin gap. It can be reduced significantly for temperatures approaching the Néel temperature, facilitating switching. The time required for switching diverges when the field approaches ht, which is the signature of an inertia in the magnetization dynamics. The temporal evolution of the magnetization and of the energy reveals signs of dephasing. The switched state has lost a part of its coherence because the magnetic modes do not evolve in phase.