複合ハードマスク構造およびスピントルク駆動磁気トンネル接合のための不均一な電流経路を形成する方法

摘要

A magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) storage element and is disclosed. The magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) storage element includes a pinned layer, a barrier layer, a free layer and a composite hardmask or top electrode. The composite hardmask / top electrode architecture is configured to provide a non-uniform current path through the MTJ storage element and is formed from electrodes having different resistance characteristics coupled in parallel. An optional tuning layer interposed between the free layer and the top electrode helps to reduce the damping constant of the free layer.