New technology traps light to strengthen magnetism by 10 times

Trapped light amplified the material’s magnetism 10x, enough to change its visible properties.

Key Takeaways

• Scientists trapped light in a magnetic metamaterial, amplifying its magnetism by 10 times.
• The material used, magnetic van der Waals, exhibits rare light-matter interaction capabilities.
• This breakthrough could lead to technologies like magnetic lasers and optically controlled magnetic memory.
• Light bouncing inside the material alters its near-infrared reflection, even changing its color.
• Strong light-magnetism interaction bridges a gap in magneto-optical technology possibilities.

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Modern technology owes much to the electromagnetic spectrum, and scientists continue to unlock new ways to manipulate light and magnetism. In a groundbreaking study published in Nature, researchers from the City College of New York (CCNY) achieved a significant milestone by trapping light inside a magnetic metamaterial. This process enhanced the material’s magnetism by a remarkable 10 times, opening doors to revolutionary magneto-optical technologies.

The Role of Magnetic van der Waals Materials

The material used in the study is part of a unique class known as magnetic van der Waals materials. These are layered semiconductors containing elements like chromium, sulfur, and bromine. Unlike naturally occurring materials, magnetic van der Waals materials are engineered for properties such as creating quasiparticles called excitons. Excitons interact strongly with light and other particles, enabling the light-trapping phenomenon.

Florian Dirnberger, lead author of the study, explained that trapping light within the material allows it to bounce back and forth, greatly enhancing its interactions. This is evident in the near-infrared spectrum, where the material’s reflection changes so dramatically that its color visibly shifts when an external magnetic field is applied. Such a strong magneto-optic response is rare, making this material a promising candidate for advanced technologies.

Implications and Future Technologies

The study co-authors believe this innovation could transform existing concepts in magneto-optical technologies. Jiamin Quan, a co-author, highlighted the potential for magnetic lasers and optically controlled magnetic memory systems. Traditionally, magnetism-related applications relied on magneto-electric phenomena, but the newfound light-magnetism interplay expands the horizon for future developments.

The discovery also underscores the versatility of magnetic van der Waals materials, which are still in the early stages of exploration. Their ability to amplify magnetism through light trapping marks a leap in understanding and leveraging these materials. As researchers delve deeper, we may see new quantum technologies and applications that once seemed like science fiction.

In conclusion, the success of trapping light inside a metamaterial not only enhances our understanding of magneto-optic interactions but also sets the stage for groundbreaking advancements in technology. The CCNY team’s work represents an exciting step forward in reimagining what’s possible with electromagnetic manipulation.