Published online by Cambridge University Press: 15 February 2011
Results of theoretical investigations on the magneto-optical Kerr-effect in layered systems are presented that are based on a fully relativistic description of the underlying electronic structure. To investigate the importance of the various sources of the Kerr effect model calculations have been performed. Applications to multilayer systems have been done for systems with non-magnetic spacers having a relatively high (Co/Pd, Co/Pt) as well as a small induced magnetic moment (Co/Cu) and comparison with experiment is made. To investigate surface layer systems the use of auxiliary model multilayer systems is explored.