Spin relaxation in copper channels with submicron cross sections

Abstract

We review our recent experimental studies of the spin relaxation processes in the submicron copper channels of nonlocal spin valves (NLSV). Long spin relaxation lengths up to 3.0 mu m at low temperatures are demonstrated in highly conductive copper channels with residual resistivity ratios up to 6. An unexpected anisotropy of spin relaxation is observed and can be attributed to the surface spin-orbit effects. An unusual scaling of the Kondo spin relaxation is established experimentally and can be explained by overlapping Kondo screening clouds. Our results demonstrate the technological potential of copper as a spin transport channel in spintronics and highlights unanswered fundamental questions related to the spin relaxation processes.