Magnetism of Mn layers on Fe(100)

The magnetic state of epitaxial overlayers of Mn grown on Fe(100) is studied using spin-polarized electron energy loss spectroscopy. Nonzero exchange asymmetries are found, demonstrating that the surface layer of the Mn overlayers has a net magnetic moment. The exchange asymmetry oscillates with a period of about two atomic layers as the Mn overlayer thickness is varied, proving that the Mn forms ferromagnetic (100) sheets and that the sheets align antiferromagnetically. The average Mn exchange splitting is found to be 2.9 eV, indicating a magnetic moment of the order 3${\mathrm{\mu }}_{\mathit{B}}$.