Differentiating anomalous and topological Hall effects using first-order reversal curve measurements
Phys. Rev. B 112, 094440 – Published 22 September, 2025
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/898w-d78g
Abstract
Next generation magnetic memories rely on novel magnetic phases for information storage. Novel spin textures such as skyrmions provide one possible avenue forward due to their topological protection and controllability via electric fields. However, the common signature of these spin textures, the topological Hall effect (THE), can be mimicked by other trivial effects. Competing anomalous Hall effect (AHE) components can produce a peak in the Hall voltage similar to that of the THE, making clear identification of the THE difficult. By applying the first-order reversal curve (FORC) technique to the Hall effect in candidate topological Hall systems, we can clearly distinguish between the THE and AHE. This technique allows for quantitative investigation of the THE and AHE in magnetic materials and heterostructures with topologically nontrivial spin textures. We demonstrate the technique and apply it to several examples.
