Scientists discover a new form of magnetism that could be the key to superconductivity

A new category of magnetism, identified as “altermagnetism”, has been discovered, potentially unlocking new advances in superconducting materials and magnetic memory devices. This development, by researchers using advanced imaging techniques, highlights how altermagnetism bridges the gap between two previously established types of magnetism. This advancement could lead to faster, more secure data storage systems and address long-standing challenges in superconductivity to look for.

Study details

According to a study published in naturethe research was led by Professor Peter Wadley at the University of Nottingham. The findings suggest that altermagnetic materials, unlike ferromagnetic or antiferromagnetic materials, have magnetic moments that alternately point in opposite directions, but with a small twist. This structure provides a combination of the strengths of the two previously known types of magnetism, enabling greater resilience, security, and functionality in memory storage.

Dr. Oliver Amin, postdoctoral researcher involved in the study, explained to live science that this form of magnetism incorporates the safe properties of antiferromagnets while maintaining the ease of data manipulation found in ferromagnets. In contrast to ferromagnets, which are susceptible to interference, and antiferromagnets, which are difficult to manipulate, altermagnets demonstrate unique qualities that address both challenges.

Time Reversal Symmetry Breaking Meaning

According to the research team, altermagnetic materials possess a rare property called time-reversal symmetry breaking. This allows certain electrical behaviors to exist that were previously unattainable. It also allows precise control of internal magnetic structures. Using photoemission electron microscopythe team successfully mapped the magnetic domains and manipulated the materials through thermal cycling techniques.

Future applications

These findings could lead to the development of advanced magnetic memory systems and spintronic devices, offering greater speed and resilience. Furthermore, the study suggests that altermagnetism could serve as the missing link in superconductivity research, filling a gap in symmetry-related challenges. This discovery could open the door to revolutionary applications in electronics and materials science.