Thermally induced all-optical ferromagnetic resonance in thin YIG films

Abstract All-optical ferromagnetic resonance (AO-FMR) is a powerful tool for the local detection of micromagnetic parameters, such as magnetic anisotropy, Gilbert damping or spin stiffness. In this work we demonstrate that AO-FMR method can be used in thin films yttrium iron garnet (YIG) if metallic capping layer (Au, Pt) deposited on top film. Magnetization precession triggered by heating with femtosecond laser pulses. The heat pulse modifies magneto-crystalline anisotropy YIG film and shifts quasi-equilibrium orientation magnetization, which results precessional magnetization dynamics. laser-induced corresponds to uniform (Kittel) magnon mode, frequency determined material well external field, time set parameter. thus enables measuring properties, resolution given spot size.