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2006 Research Project: Synthesis, Refinement and Magnetic Characterization of Heusler Compounds Magnetic materials that conduct only one spin of electron are currently used in newer hard drives and may allow instant-on computers and faster processors in the future. Our research goal was to make and characterize the magnetic properties of compounds with a certain structure type called Heusler. Samples contained three metals with the general formula X2YZ where X and Y are transition metals and Z is a main group element. These three metals were melted together using an arc melter at temperatures approaching 4000 degrees Celsius, then analyzed for structure type using powder x-ray diffraction and Rietveld analysis. Samples that were not well-ordered crystals were annealed in a furnace, while well-ordered crystals were tested for magnetic properties. A SQUID magnetometer was used to measure the strength, response to a magnetic field, and temperature dependence of the magnet. Download 2006 Research Project as a PDF file 2007 Curriculum Project: Converting to Inquiry Science Labs – Tools and examples for allowing students to practice science This project provides tools and examples for modifying science labs to allow students to practice science. Instead of strictly following a procedure, students are encouraged to hypothesize, design experiments, and analyze their data before communicating their answers. View curriculum project as a presentation. Download 2008 Workshop handouts. Return to the RET project list |
