Atomic-Scale Detection of Néel Vector Switching in the Single-Layer A-Type Antiferromagnet Cr2S3-2D.

The detection of Néel vector switching in a single-layer A-type antiferromagnet marks an important step toward functional two-dimensional spintronics. Here, Cr 2 S 3 -2D, grown on graphene on Ir(110), is established as a first single-layer A-type antiferromagnet. Spin-polarized scanning tunneling microscopy reveals hysteresis loops with a large switching field and a pronounced dependence on island size. X-ray magnetic circular dichroism at the Cr L 2 , 3 edges exhibits a tiny signal with a linear magnetic field dependence, consistent with an antiferromagnetic ground state with an estimated net moment below 10 - 2 μ B per Cr and a Néel temperature of about 160 K. Quantitative analysis of the island-size dependence of the switching field, together with first-principles calculations, indicates a slight imbalance between the magnetic moments of the two Cr planes of Cr 2 S 3 -2D when supported on a substrate. This imbalance results in a net magnetization for the A-type antiferromagnet, which enables the 180 ∘ rotation of the Néel vector. Moreover, Cr 2 S 3 -2D retains its magnetic properties after several days of exposure to air.