Dynamic magnetization switching by time-reversal-odd nonlinear spin polarization
Phys. Rev. B 114, 194431 – Published 30 October, 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1103/gb93-pqdc
Abstract
Field-free deterministic switching of magnetization by electric current is at the heart of spin-orbit-torque devices. It is widely believed that structural inversion symmetry breaking is an indispensable prerequisite for such switching. Here we propose that by exploiting the nonlinear response regime, a time-reversal-odd spin polarization offers a robust dynamical route to entirely circumvent this symmetry requirement. Using a macrospin model, we map out the dynamic phase diagram of the magnetization driven by this nonlinear spin polarization and identify the conditions required for deterministic switching. As a concrete example, we demonstrate field-free magnetization switching via numerical simulations of a centrosymmetric, two-band magnetic Weyl semimetal model.
