Influence of the shape on the magneto-optic properties of nanosized islands.

We have investigated the magneto-optic properties of triangular and ellipsoidally-shaped islands. Preparation of the islands is done by soft nanosphere lithography and subsequent annealing. The change of the magneto-optic properties as a result of composition and shape of the islands is discussed. The spectral magneto-optic response of flat triangular island is found to be similar to bulk despite the nanometric size, only differing in magnitude. Ellipsoidally shaped island of the same lateral spacing, however, exhibit a change of sign in combination with an enhancement of the magneto-optic signal. Scattering effects are believed to be the origin for this behavior. • Soft lithography with PS balls for triangular island fabrication has been applied. • Sign changes of magneto-optical response as a consequence of the shape of the island have been observed. • Structures shape role in magneto-optical signal sign has been proved by round nanoparticles incorporation into the system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]