Scientists “Lock” Light Inside Magnetic Material, Paving the Way for Technological Innovation
In a groundbreaking study published on August 16 in the journal Nature, scientists have discovered a method to “lock” light inside a layered magnet, presenting new opportunities for technological advancement. The research, conducted by the Winoda team led by M. Menon from the New York City College, reveals the potential for the development of magnetic lasers and a reevaluation of optically controlled magnetic memory.
The study focused on the properties of a magnetic material with layered structures that enable it to trap light within itself. Unlike ordinary magnets, this material exhibits significantly stronger optical reactions to magnetic phenomena.
Dr. Florian Dirnberger, the lead author of the study, explained, “When the light is reflected back and forth inside the magnet, the interaction becomes highly intensified. Upon exposure to an external magnetic field, the near infrared reflected light undergoes such drastic changes that the material appears to change its color. This demonstrates a remarkably strong magneto-optical response.”
Jiamin Zuan, a co-author of the study, highlighted that the current applications of magnetic materials primarily revolve around magneto-electrical phenomena. However, due to the substantial interactions between magnetism and light, the discovery opens up possibilities for the creation of magnetic lasers and the potential revision of conventional concepts regarding optically controlled magnetic memory.
The study was conducted through international collaboration and received support from various universities and scientific funds including the University of Michigan, Washington University, US Air Force Office of Scientific Research, and the National Science Foundation.