Macroscopic quantum coherence in ferromagnetic systems

Author(s)

Fagner Muruci de Paula

• Document type: Doctoral Thesis
• Press: Campinas, SP.
• Institution: Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). Instituto de Física Gleb Wataghin
• Defense date: 2011-08-29

Examining board members

Amir Ordacgi Caldeira; Eduardo Miranda; Marcus Aloizio Martinez de Aguiar; Frederico Borges de Brito; Nei Fernandes de Oliveira Junior

• Advisor: Amir Ordacgi Caldeira

Abstract

For many decades, quantum phenomena were observed with microscopic particles, such as atoms, electrons and photons. However, advancements in manufacture and control of physics systems with very small dimensions have allowed verifying quantum events in large proportions. For instance, there are evidences of quantum superposition with a supercurrent formed by billions of electrons on a SQUID (Superconducting Quantum Interference Device). Such evidences have driven our work in a way to investigate new devices that are capable to exhibit macroscopic quantum effects. In particular, we are interested in ferromagnetic systems that present MQC (Macroscopic Quantum Coherence), in other words, ferromagnets in which the magnetization ?eld tunnels periodically in time between two distinct and degenerate topological states. In this thesis, we have suggested two devices: a ferromagnetic wire in which a domain wall tunnels between two arti?cial pinning centers; and a MQUID (Magnetic Quantum Interference Device) that is a magnetic device analogous to SQUID that permit quantum tunneling effects with a supercurrent formed by spin vortices. These devices are useful to explore the limits of validity of quantum mechanics, as well they open new possibilities to put into operation a quantum bit (AU)