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Optically induced thermal demagnetization and switching of antiferromagnetic domains in NiO and CoO thin films

Maciej Dąbrowski1,*, Tong Wu2, Connor R. J. Sait1, Jia Xu3, Paul S. Keatley1, Yizheng Wu2,4, Robert J. Hicken1, and Olena Gomonay5,†

  • *Contact author: m.k.dabrowski@exeter.ac.uk
  • †Contact author: ogomonay@uni-mainz.de
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Phys. Rev. Applied 26, 044008 – Published 2 October, 2026

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/jsdr-j4h6

Abstract

We demonstrate all-optical manipulation of magnetic domains in NiO/Pt and CoO/Pt thin films with insulating antiferromagnetic layers. Using magneto-optical birefringence imaging, we show that even a single laser pulse can thermally demagnetize the antiferromagnet, leading to a random redistribution of domains. By sweeping the laser beam, domain-wall motion is induced, enabling partial switching of the antiferromagnetic order. The behavior is captured by an analytical model in which temperature gradients generated by the moving beam exert a thermal pressure on domain walls in the form of a ponderomotive force. Of note, the 90° domains can be reversibly toggled solely by reversing the direction of the thermal gradient, demonstrating all-optical switching without the need for electric currents. These findings establish a route toward ultrafast optical manipulation of fully compensated antiferromagnets, with potential impact on nonvolatile memory technologies and antiferromagnetic spintronics.

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Phys. Rev. Applied 26, 044008– Published 2 October, 2026
  • Received 22 May 2026
  • Revised 5 August 2026
  • Accepted 3 September 2026
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