SHRIMP – Precision magnetometer

Similarly to an Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) measurement, a material can be magnetized and excited to measure the presence of weak AC fields. Coupling it to a resonator can greatly increase sensitivity to radio-frequency magnetic fields. The study of suitable materials and resonators will make it possible to develop a new class of magnetometers with sensitivities below fT/√Hz at room temperature.

How does it work?

Detecting very weak magnetic fields is an ongoing technological challenge, motivated by the numerous applications of the magnetometers.

SHRIMP is a magnetometer that incorporates operation at room temperature, high working frequency and ease of implementation, making it useful for a variety of applications. The sensitivity limit of this instrument is the same as or greater than that of the current state-of-the-art magnetometers. The working principle is based on field modulation usually used for the measurement of electron spin resonances. To improve sensitivity, the magnetic material can be coupled to a resonator, such as a microwave mode of a resonant cavity. Numerous realizations of this object can be studied, depending on the applications, ranging from the detection of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) signals to fundamental physics.

Applications

• Medical field: nuclear magnetic resonance imaging;
• Scientific research;
• Materials science: for the characterisation of magnetic properties;
• Geological exploration;
• Development of magnetic radar.

Advantages

• Extremely high sensitivity;
• Possibility of use at both room and cryogenic temperatures, maintaining high sensitivity;
• Compactness and structural solidity;
• Adaptability and variability depending on the application;
• Ease of use.