Objective
Research objectives and content
We propose to study dynamical properties of low-dimensional magnetic systems through inelastic neutron scattering (INS). Low-dimensional antiferromagnets are known to be drastically different than their three-dimensional analogues. In these systems, quantum fluctuations induced by the electronic spins are so strong that any classical picture is irrelevant. For instance, when antiferromagnetic chains are coupled to each others, they form a magnetic structure called << spin ladder >>. Recently, it has been shown that spin-1/2 even-leg ladders and odd-leg ladders have fascinating different properties. These systems are currently subject of intense activity as their closeness to high-temperature superconductors is accounted for by recent evidence for superconductivity in cuprates two-leg ladders.
Training content (objective, benefit and expected impact)
The neutron source located at Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, ISIS department, allows a unique opportunity to study low-energy spin dynamics of various magnetic systems. INS pitchs dynamical properties through both energy transfers or wave vector transfers. In general, INS provides major informations on crystal structure and magnetic fluctuations to the solid state physics community.
Links with industry / industrial relevance (22)
The underlined motivation, apart from a wider knowledge of highly quantum spin systems, is to get a clearer picture of mechanisms of
superconductivity in cuprates. While industrial applications (like High-TC SQUID or wires) has emerged in the last years, a microscopic global understanding is still missing. One of the interesting aspect of spin-ladders is to probe magnetic and transport properties of << model >> systems, by many aspects similar to high-Tc superconductors.
Fields of science
Topic(s)
Call for proposal
Data not availableFunding Scheme
RGI - Research grants (individual fellowships)Coordinator
OX11 0QX DIDCOT,HARWELL,CHILTON
United Kingdom