• Accepted Paper

Large spin-orbit-torque efficiency and low critical-current density in β-W/X (X = Ti, V, Cr, Ru, Ta) multilayers

Xing He, Hengan Zhou, Aoran Gao, Haochen Guo, Jintao Ke, Yalong Liu, Yang Wang, Qiuyun Zhou, Wenlong Yang, Enlong Liu, Dinggui Zeng, Shikun He, and Wanjun Jiang

Phys. Rev. Applied - Accepted 5 October, 2026

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/sb4d-h4l9

Abstract

Spin-orbit torque magnetic random-access memory (SOT-MRAM) is attracting considerable interests for which offers sub-nanosecond writing speed, femtojoule-level energy consumption, and virtually unlimited endurance. However, large-scale industrial implementation is constrained by the lack of proper spin-source materials that simultaneously exhibit a large spin-orbit torque efficiency, low resistivity, and compatibility with the established SOT-MRAM fabrication process. Stimulated by recent progress of the complementary generation of orbital and spin currents, we engineer β-W/X (X = Ti, V, Cr, Ru, Ta) multilayers to resolve these constraints. Harmonic Hall and current switching measurements demonstrate that substantially enhanced spin-orbit torque efficiencies and reduced critical switching current densities can be achieved in W/Ti, W/V, W/Cr, and W/Ta multilayers, as compared with that of the pure β-W. Upon further optimizing the thicknesses of Cr and W layers, we realize a low critical switching current density down to 5 × 10⁵ A/cm², which represents nearly an order of magnitude lower than that of pure β-W. The scaling relation between the spin-orbit torque efficiency and resistivity can be qualitatively captured by a charge-orbital-spin conversion mechanism. These results provide practical guidelines for designing energy-efficient spin-source materials that could accelerate the application of SOT-MRAM technologies.

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