Efficient conversion of orbital Hall current to spin current for spin-orbit torque switching

Abstract Spin Hall effect, an electric generation of spin current, allows for efficient control magnetization. Recent theory revealed that orbital effect creates which can be much larger than spin-Hall-induced current. However, current cannot directly exert a torque on ferromagnet, requiring conversion process from to Here, we report two effective methods the through spin-orbit coupling engineering, us unambiguously demonstrate orbital-current-induced torque, or torque. We find is greatly enhanced by introducing either rare-earth ferromagnet Gd Pt interfacial layer with strong in Cr/ferromagnet structures, indicating generated Cr efficiently converted into layer. Our results offer pathway utilize further enhance magnetization switching efficiency spin-orbit-torque-based spintronic devices.