Interface magnetic anisotropy in cobalt clusters embedded in a platinum   or niobium matrix
  A low concentration of cobalt clusters with a fcc structure and containing almost one thousand atoms are embedded in two different metallic matrices: platinum and niobium. Samples have been prepared using a co-deposition technique. Cobalt clusters preformed in the gas phase and matrix atoms are simultaneously deposited on a silicon substrate under Ultra High Vacuum conditions. This original technique allows to prepare nanostructured systems from miscible elements such as Co/Pt and Co/Nb in which clusters keep a pure cobalt core surrounded with an alloyed interface. Magnetic measurements performed using a Vibrating Sample Magnetometer (VSM) reveal large differences in the magnetic properties of cobalt clusters in Pt and Nb pointing out the key role of cluster/matrix interfaces. 
M. Jamet, M. Negrier, V. Dupuis, J. Tuaillon-Combes, P. Melinon, A.   Perez, W. Wernsdorfer, B. Barbara, J. Vogel and B. Bag...