Spin-transfer torque switching below 20 kA/cm² in perpendicular magnetic tunnel junctions

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We demonstrate the reduction of critical spin-transfer torque (STT) switching currents in Co-Fe-B/MgO based magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJ) with perpendicular magnetization anisotropy (PMA). The junctions yield tunnel magnetoresistance (TMR) ratios of up to 64% at 4 monolayer (ML) tunnel barrier thickness. In this paper, the reduction of the critical switching current density is studied. By optimizing the applied bias field during DC-STT measurements, ultra low critical switching current densities of less than 20 kA/cm², even down to 9 kA/cm², are found. With the reduced switching currents, our samples are ideal candidates for further experimental studies such as the theoretical predicted thermally driven spin-transfer torque effect.