New Altermagnetism Discovery Holds Promise for Spintronics
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Researchers have discovered a new type of magnetism called "altermagnetism" with spins that alternate but still have useful magnetic properties.
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Altermagnets have no net magnetization like antiferromagnets but retain strong spin-dependent effects seen in ferromagnets.
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Proof of altermagnetism was found in manganese telluride crystals using specialized techniques at the Swiss Light Source.
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Over 200 materials are predicted to be possible altermagnets, including common semiconductors.
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Altermagnetism has implications for spintronics technology and understanding unconventional superconductivity.