Recently, a research team from Japan, consisting of scientists from various institutions, made a groundbreaking discovery in the observation of magnetic fields at incredibly small scales. This achievement has the potential to revolutionize various industries such as electronics, catalysis, transportation, and energy generation by providing insights into the magnetic properties of materials at the atomic level.
The orientation and strength of magnetic fields at the atomic level play a crucial role in determining the properties of crystalline materials. Understanding these magnetic fields can help explain various physical phenomena and facilitate the development of high-performance materials with tailored characteristics. Prior to this breakthrough, the resolution at which magnetic fields of atomic layers could be observed was limited, hindering the progress in this field.
The research team utilized Hitachi’s atomic-resolution holography electron microscope, along with newly developed image acquisition technology and defocus correction algorithms, to visualize the magnetic fields of individual atomic layers within a crystalline solid. By automating the control and tuning of the device during data acquisition, the team significantly sped up the imaging process and obtained clearer images containing distinct electric and magnetic field data.
One of the key challenges addressed by the team was the correction for minute defocusing, which caused aberrations in the acquired images. The researchers employed a post-image-capture correction technique that analyzed reconstructed electron waves to eliminate residual aberrations. This approach resulted in images that were free of aberrations, making it easier to discern the positions and phases of atoms with magnetic fields.
Through these advancements, the team was able to achieve an unprecedented resolution of 0.47 nm in observing the magnetic fields of Ba2FeMoO6, a layered crystalline material with distinct magnetic fields in adjacent atomic layers. By surpassing the previous record, the researchers have opened doors to direct observations of magnetic lattices in specific areas of materials and devices, such as interfaces and grain boundaries.
The remarkable achievement of the research team is expected to have far-reaching implications for scientific and technological advancements. The atomic-resolution holography electron microscope developed by Hitachi will be utilized by various parties to drive progress in fields ranging from fundamental physics to the development of next-generation devices. Ultimately, this breakthrough could pave the way for the realization of a carbon-neutral society through the development of high-performance magnets and functional materials essential for decarbonization and energy-saving efforts.
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