Forming a heat channel on a magnetic write pole using an adhesion layer

Abstract

Described are write head constructions that may be useful in magnetic recording, and in particular for heat-assisted magnetic recording. Such write head constructions include a heat channel abutted to the write pole to facilitate transferring heat away from the write pole and other components near the media-facing surface of the write head. To help prevent diffusion of materials between the heat channel and the write pole, a diffusion barrier layer is provided. Properties such as thermal expansion mismatch, the presence of oxide in the diffusion barrier layer, and so forth, may lead to undesired delamination of the heat channel during fabrication of the write head and/or during operation. In accordance with the present disclosure, an adhesion layer may be provided between the diffusion barrier layer and the heat channel to improve adhesion of the heat channel and effectively reduce delamination.