Quantitative Magnetic Force Microscopy by Controlled Magnetic Probes

This project targets two main objectives in the area of magnetic material characterization and magnetic force microscopy (MFM), which would push forward two essential issues, i.e., the reliability of (finally commercially available) magnetic probes and the quantitative interpretation of magnetic images. A novel approach to a quantitative MFM (qMFM) will be developed, which is viable to be commercialized after successful implementation and demonstration of the proposed tools in the laboratory. The development of qMFM is essential for the characterization of magnetic material. Huge efforts on European level are undertaken to replace or reduce critical magnetic elements in climate change relevant materials, like NdFeB in wind mills, e-cars, … The development of alternatives urgently needs highly resolving magnetic methods. The mentioned development of alternative materials is mainly done at the microscopic and nanoscopic level and heavily relies on appropriate measurement methods. MFM is one of the important instruments in use.