On factors inducing the (10(1)over-bar-0) texture of hexagonal-close-packed Co63Cr31Mn6 layers in magnetic recording media

Abstract

We investigate factors affecting the movement of sputtered species and the (10 (1) over bar0) texture formation of hexagonal-close-packed Co63Cr31Mn6 (CoCrMn) layers in magnetic recording media. Deposition conditions and underlayers rendering high mobility of the sputtered species promote the (10 (1) over bar0) texture of the CoCrMn film. Elemental effects are studied by substituting manganese with a series of 3d transition elements (Ti, V, Cr, Fe, Ni, and Cu) in the CoCrMn films. The results suggest that the chemical characteristics of manganese, the preference of bonding with different elements (especially with cobalt), is important in the texture formation of CoCrMn films. (C) 2004 American Institute of Physics.