P.J. Jensen (1,2), R. Brinzanik (1), and K.H. Bennemann (1)

We present results for the equilibrium and time-dependent magnetic properties during the growth of ultrathin transition metal films. A simple growth model is used, allowing for the consideration of laterally structured thin films such as island-type or layer-by-layer-type structures, for example.

Magnetic interactions like exchange coupling, lattice anisotropy, magnetic dipole coupling, and external magnetic field are taken into account within a Heisenberg model. The relaxation of the thin film magnetization M( q,T,t) as a function of various influences is determined using a Kinetic Monte Carlo method, and compared with measurements. Resulting relaxation times are estimated. A possible magnetic ordering below the percolation threshold of the magnetic islands induced by long range interactions is discussed. In addition we investigate the magnetic domain structure during the thin film growth.

A multi-domain structure with small domains is obtained in the case of a rapid growth and for low temperatures.