This request is for the purchase of a SQUID magnetometer capable of providing standard magnetic measurements over a wide range of temperature, from 2 to 800 Kelvins. The SQUID magnetometer is needed in fundamental studies of problems in materials science and engineering, solid state chemistry, and condensed matter physics. Studies which will make use of the magnetometer include: investigations of the critical cross-over energies and redox energies in mixed-metal oxides; magnetic interaction in covalent systems such as chalcogenides and pnictides, crystal chemistry and properties of metal oxides; permanent magnet alloys, and solid freeform fabrication; powder and gas-phase laser processing and nanometer powder processing. An available magnetometer will allow the training of graduate and undergraduate students in a technique important for materials synthesis, characterization, and processing. This magnetometer will be housed in the Center for Materials Science and Engineering, used primarily by six faculty members and four other members of the center. Maintenance and operation will be provided by the PI and CO-PI through their current and pending NSF support. The instrument willl be shared by the PI/CO-PI (70% use) with three other groups (30% use). About 22 grad students, 7 post-docs, and 4 undergraduate students will have access to this instrument.
