Properties of amorphous CoZr(RE) (RE=Gd, Sm, Dy) films with various uniaxial anisotropies, prepared by a new process

If a DC magnetic field is applied parallel to the plane of amorphous CoZr(RE) thin films during sputter depositing, a uniaxial anisotropy is formed the direction of which depends upon the choice of RE substituted and its concentration. When RE=Gd a perpendicular anisotropy K p forms over a large concentration range, a spin reorientation process being at the origin of the process. A well-defined K p is developed also in CoFeZrGd and CoZrGdSm films. CoZrGdDy films exhibit simultaneously a perpendicular and an in-plane uniaxial anisotropy. The related magnetization process and domain structures are quite peculiar.