AFMTech — Case Studies

End-to-end process flow for MgO-based magnetic tunnel junctions including thin-film stack design, patterning, and TMR characterization.

• Multilayer thin-film stack by RF/DC sputtering; MgO barrier formation
• Microfabrication: lithography, ion milling, contact deposition
• Electrical characterization and TMR ratio extraction

Outcome: Achieved stable TMR with repeatable switching—validated for lab-to-pilot transfer.

Designed and delivered a bespoke oxide target with tight stoichiometry control and density suitable for PLD and sputter tools.

• Powder selection, calcination, and hot pressing for >95% theoretical density
• Target machining to ±0.05 mm tolerance; backside bonding
• Qualification film data provided (phase & thickness)

Outcome: Customer reported uniform films and improved device yield after target switch.

Bayesian optimization loop for deposition conditions on ferroelectric films, minimizing trial runs.

• DoE + Bayesian optimization around temperature, pressure, and power
• Automated data capture and model re-training per run
• Converged to target polarization within 12 iterations

Outcome: 50% reduction in runs to spec, enabling faster process transfer.

Advanced spectroscopy workflow for oxidation state and local structure analysis, with publication-ready reporting.

• Sample prep and proposal assistance for beamtime
• Beamline data acquisition with standards & references
• EXAFS fitting and XMCD spin-state analysis

Outcome: Resolved cation valence states and local coordination—guiding device stack redesign.