Monte Carlo simulation on a new artificial spin ice lattice consisting of hexagons and three-moment vertices

Abstract

A new artificial spin ice lattice called vortex lattice is proposed based on the Kagome lattice. Monte Carlo simulations were performed to investigate the magnetization reversal process of the new artificial spin ice lattice at external magnetic field and different lattice parameters. The results demonstrate some interesting phenomena which are different from Kagome lattice. There are four typical sub-structures emerged in the vortex lattice, which are clockwise and counter-clockwise hexagons, and frustrated +3q and -3q vertices. The occurrence frequency of the four sub-structures change dramatically at different lattice parameter. The new lattice can be partially frustrated at different lattice parameter.