High-Density Magnetic Recording and Integrated Magneto-Optics: Materials and Devices

This book discusses high-density magnetic recording which continues to be one of the fastest growing and rapidly improving technologies in the computer industry, due in great part to an improved understanding of both magnetic materials for heads and media and corrosion together with wear-resistant materials. Papers discuss synthesis, characterization, modelling and performance of novel materials, as well as mechanisms for improving the microstructure of existing materials. Topics for the segment include: high moment pole materials; anisotropic magnetoresistance (AMR), giant magnetoresistance (GMR) and exchange materials; spin tunnel junctions; colossal magneto-resistance (CMR) materials; microstructural issues in longitudinal recording media; thermal stability of magnetic recording media; perpendicular magnetic media and novel structures; nanotribology of wear layers for recording media; and tribology, lubricants and corrosion. There is also growing interest in magneto-optical materials that can be integrated into a broad range of photonic devices. These issues are addressed with topics that include: garnet materials for integrated photonics - fabrication and processing - devices for integrated photonics; magneto-optic recording media and diluted magnetic semiconductors and other materials.