A laboratory magnetometer for express measurements of magnetic hysteresis loops

Abstract

Subject and Purpose. The development of technologies for synthesis of nanoscale magnetic materials requires new techniques for measuring magnetic properties of nanoscale magnetic materials in such a way as to provide express post-synthesis measurements of magnetic properties and exclude, in doing so, any mechanical displacements of measured specimens. Despite the fact that numerous techniques exist for studying magnetic properties of materials, the development of such magnetic nanomaterials as magnetic nanoparticles faces the need in novel measuring approaches based on standard procedures. Novel express techniques are called to gain information about how magnetic properties of magnetic materials vary over time and respond to such factors as temperature, storage conditions, stabilizing agents, exposure to an external magnetic field. Method and Methodology. In this work, magnetic hysteresis loops are registered using a newly developed technique based on the method of small disturbances (by an external magnetic field) and combining standard constructions of hysterometers and vibrating-sample magnetometers. Results. Magnetic hysteresis loops of a bulky ferrite (brand 1SCh4) sample and a 40 μm thick YIG film have been registered using the presented technique and compared with the results obtained by the well-known technique for measuring magnetic hysteresis loops. They are in good agreement with a margin error as low as 10%, which can be further improved by means of more precise equipment. With the presented technique, the magnetization and the coercive force of Fe0.5Co0.5Fe2O4 nanoparticles not examined yet have been determined. Conclusion. The developed technique makes it possible to study magnetic materials of various compositions including nanoscale magnets.