Magnetization distribution in thin films with perpendicular surface anisotropy

An analysis of magnetization patterns and remanence states of thin films with a surface anisotropy normal to the film plane was conducted. The total film energy integral is expanded to second order to find both nucleation and equilibrium. Results show that for a given film and applied field a critical surface anisotropy is required for the magnetizations to deviate from initial saturation. Analytic expressions for the critical conditions for in-plane and normal applied field are provided. Remanent state magnetization distributions are observed.