Challenge #100
Creating strong magnetic fields to explore innovative materials.
Magnetic fields make it possible to influence the properties of materials in a targeted and, above all, controlled manner to an extent that is otherwise impossible. Our high-field magnetic laboratory in Dresden generates the highest possible fields for this purpose.
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The stronger the magnetic field, the more precisely researchers can study substances that could be used for new types of electronic and magnetic components or for superconductors that conduct electricity without resistance.
Such high magnetic fields are generated by directing enormous electric current flows through a copper coil. However, the coil cannot withstand this flow for long. For this reason, the coils at the High Field Magnet Laboratory of the Helmholtz center Dresden-Rossendorf are driven with very high and short energy pulses without destroying them. The power for this is in turn supplied by the largest capacitor bank in the world.
For their studies, the researchers generate pulsed magnetic fields of up to about 100 tesla (for comparison, a commercial refrigerator magnet has 0.05 tesla). Since the coils are operated close to their breaking point, the scientists use special copper alloys that can withstand ten thousand times the atmospheric pressure. They also give this metal a type of corset made of a special plastic that holds the alloy together from the outside.
The result: Highly powerful magnetic fields, and thus a perfect environment for research into high-tech materials for the future.
(Photo: HZDR/Oliver Killig)
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