Angle-dependent loop shifts in antiferromagnetic nanoparticles.

Experimentally hysteresis loop shifts have been widely observed in antiferromagnetic (AF) nanoparticles. Here numerical investigations show that this effect is dependent on the angle between the easy axis of the AF spins and the applied magnetic field in uncompensated nanoparticles. In contrast, the loop shifts disappear in compensated nanoparticles. The results suggest that the uncompensated spins and field directions are essential ingredients to generate loop shifts in AF nanoparticle systems. The present study hints at a possible way to optimize the magnetic performance of AF nanostructures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]