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Content archived on 2024-05-29

Neutron Scattering Studies of Magnetic Interactions in Nanostructures

Objective

The project will exploit powerful neutron and synchrotron x-ray techniques, new to the applicant, together with Moss Bauer and SQUID measurements, to study the magnetic interactions in two complementary Nan structured systems:
a) bulk metallic disordered samples exhibiting a spin-glass-like phase transition related to the presence of interacting, randomly distributed, ferromagnetic Nan particles, and
b) exchange-biased magnetic multiplayer, composed of structurally and magnetically ordered layers. The samples referred to in
a) have already been produced by the applicant using the technique of mechanical alloying, whereas the multiplayer in
b) will be supplied by the host institution. Both Nan structures exhibit spin-dependent giant magnetoresistence, and are of huge technological importance, for example, in read heads in computers. The overall objective, for both types of system, is to determine the structural parameters and the correlations between the relevant magnetic entities [Nan particles in a) and layers in b)]. In particular, neutron studies of the bulk metallic Nan particle systems would help to clarify the nature of the interactions responsible for their spin- glass-like low temperature state. In order to fully understand the exchange-biasing interaction between Ferro- and ant ferromagnetic blocks it is necessary to determine the ordering of the magnetic moments in the first few atomic planes at the interface. NiFe/FeMn is actually used in commercial spin-valves, and studying multiplayer of this system is a route to understanding the exchange-bias behaviour. The project will allow the applicant, an experienced researcher in disordered Nan granular alloys, to complete his experimental expertise with relevant microscopic neutron and synchrotron techniques, while diversifying his field of research. He will emerge from the Fellowship equipped to fully exploit the world- leading neutron and synchrotron resources available in the EU.

Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)

Keywords

Topic(s)

Call for proposal

FP6-2002-MOBILITY-5
See other projects for this call

Funding Scheme

EIF - Marie Curie actions-Intra-European Fellowships

Coordinator

THE UNIVERSITY OF LIVERPOOL
EU contribution
No data
Address
Senate House, Abercromby Square
LIVERPOOL
United Kingdom
Total cost
No data