Field-tunable skyrmion phases in monolayer MXene for spintronic applications

Abstract

We present a comprehensive micromagnetic investigation of the spin textures and magnetization dynamics in a thin multi-ferroic Co₂C MXene flake subjected to external magnetic fields ranging from 0 T to 8 T. At zero field, the system exhibits a complex spin spiral structure, indicative of strong competing magnetic interactions. As the applied magnetic field increases, the spin configurations undergo a continuous topological transition—from a skyrmion lattice to a uniformly magnetized ferromagnetic phase. Intermediate field regimes (0.5 T to 2.5 T) show distorted or compressed skyrmions and partial spin alignment, while higher fields (3.0 T to 6.0 T) stabilize isolated skyrmions within an increasingly polarized matrix. At fields exceeding 6.0 T, skyrmions are progressively annihilated, and a fully saturated ferromagnetic state is achieved by 8.0 T. Time-resolved simulations of the mean magnetization reveal field-dependent acceleration in spin alignment and saturation behavior, highlighting the tunable magnetic response of the Co₂C system. These results demonstrate the robustness and controllability of skyrmionic states in MXene-based multi-ferroics and underscore their potential for application in next-generation spintronic devices.