Ultrafast nanoscale magnetization dynamics probed by time-resolved EUV magnetic scattering

The ultrafast optical control of magnetization represents a promising avenue for next-generation memory and data storage devices. While many studies have focused on understanding the rapid transfer of angular momentum, recent measurements have revealed rich physics underlying laser modification of nanoscale magnetic textures including labyrinthine or stripe domains, skyrmions, etc. We have utilized time-resolved magnetic scattering at the FERMI free electron laser to probe the nanoscale magnetization dynamics in a [Co/Ni/Pt] multilayer following infrared (IR) laser excitation at both the Co and Ni resonant edges. Changes in the amplitude, period, and inhomogeneity of the labyrinthine- and stripe-like domain scattering patterns are compared for the Co and Ni edges. Surprisingly, Ni exhibited larger quenching in magnetization amplitude, periodicity, and peak width compared to the Co edge. Our results highlight the distinct behavior of Co and Ni, even though similar quench and recovery timescales are observed for both materials.