In the quest for next-generation permanent magnets, a team of researchers led by Daisuke Ogawa from the National Institute for Materials Science in Tsukuba, Japan, has made significant strides. Their work, published in the journal *Science, Technology and Advanced Materials: Methods* (translated from the original Japanese title), focuses on ThMn12-type rare-earth intermetallic compounds, which promise superior performance and reduced rare earth content compared to traditional Nd-Fe-B magnets.
The study systematically investigates the magnetic properties of Sm(Fe12)-based thin films synthesized via combinatorial sputtering. By incorporating various stabilizing elements such as Ti, V, Co, Cr, and others, the researchers explored their effects on phase stability, saturation magnetization (Js), anisotropy field (HA), and Curie temperature (Tc). This approach is crucial for the energy sector, where high-performance magnets are essential for motors and other energy applications.
“Our goal was to accelerate the discovery of new magnetic materials by combining high-throughput experiments with machine learning techniques,” Ogawa explained. The team’s high-throughput structural and magnetic characterizations, coupled with machine learning (ML) predictions, facilitated efficient data acquisition and analysis. This method not only reaffirmed known trends, such as the enhancement of Js with Co and the phase-stabilization capabilities of Ti and V but also revealed novel insights into additives like Cr and Ta, which showed potential for improving Js.
The researchers employed ML regression models, specifically Random Forest and XGBoost, to identify key factors influencing Js. Electronegativity emerged as a critical parameter. Predictive analyses successfully estimated Js trends and ThMn12 phase stability for unexplored compositions, enhancing the active learning framework for material discovery.
“This work highlights the synergy of combinatorial deposition, high-throughput data collection, and ML-assisted prediction in accelerating the exploration of magnetic materials,” Ogawa noted. The study’s findings are poised to shape future developments in the field, particularly in the energy sector, where the demand for high-performance magnets is growing.
Future extensions to multi-element systems and other magnetic phases are expected to further expedite the discovery of advanced magnets. As the world moves towards more sustainable energy solutions, the development of efficient and cost-effective magnetic materials becomes increasingly important. This research not only advances our understanding of magnetic properties but also paves the way for innovative applications in motors and energy technologies.