Theory of spin-dependent conductivity in GMR materials

Abstract

This paper presents a critical review of theoretical studies of spin-dependent conductivity in GMR (giant magnetoresistive) materials. Earlier studies used relatively simple models of the electronic states and energy-band structure. Several more recent calculations of electronic transport in layered materials are based on ab initio treatment of the spin-dependent energy bands and Fermi surface. By including realistic energy-band structures, these studies have been able to make quantitative comparisons of alternative mechanisms for enhanced magnetoresistance and to explain the relative importance of spin-dependent scattering at interfaces.