Spin-mechanical device for detection and control of spin current by nanomechanical torque

We propose a spin-mechanical device to control and detect spin currents by mechanical torque. Our hybrid nanoelectromechanical device, which contains a nanowire with a ferromagnetic-nonmagnetic interface, is designed to measure or induce spin-polarized currents. Since spin carries angular momentum, a spin-flip or spin-transfer process involves a change in angular momentum and hence, a torque, which enables mechanical measurement of spin flips. Conversely, an applied torque can result in spin polarization and spin current.

©2004 The American Physical Society