Micromagnetic modelling on magnetization dynamics in nanopillars driven by spin-transfer torque

An overview on the current-induced magnetization dynamics in spin-valve nanopillars using micromagnetic modelling is presented in this paper. We first review briefly the terms of spin-transfer torque (STT) added to the conventional Landau–Lifshitz–Gilbert equation. Then, the effects of STT on the magnetization dynamics are discussed in the framework of micromagnetic modelling. The discussion mainly concerns the angular dependence of the STT, the pinned-layer dynamics and the non-uniform magnetization distribution along the thickness direction. At the end of the paper, we introduce some emerging issues which will be feasible for micromagnetic modelling such as the spin-motive force, the non-local spin torque and the Rashba effect.