Artificially Structured Multiferroic Composites based on the Heusler alloys

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Current demands for improved competitiveness and sustainability require from a knowledge-based society a development of new materials with new functionalities and better performance that are drivers of innovation in science and technology. Ferromagnetic Heusler alloys assembled into the composite architectures may offer unique properties, not observed in single-phase alloys, resulting form the interplay of the intrinsic properties of individual constituents. The aim of this research program is to carry out experimental work designed to understand the coupling between magnetic, thermodynamic, structural, elastic and electric properties that influence magnetocalorc and magnetoelectric phenomena in Heusler based layered composites and to advance knowledge of the processes that control these properties across the length scales. This knowledge will provide a scientific platform for the design of new advanced materials with desired functionalities that can be tailored for our needs. Within a framework of this program we will develop procedures for synthesis of composite layer structures based on Heusler alloys, we will master various advanced techniques for the characterization of their properties and we will study how to functionalize these composite systems so that they can find their niche in different applications and devices. These applications comprise, but are not limited to, sensing and actuating applications, applications for thermoelectric energy conversion devices, integrated magneto-electric and electro-mechanical systems, logic and memory applications and spintronic applications. The rapid emergence of new class of multifunctional materials makes the proposed research program particularly timely. Development of a better knowledge of structure and properties of Heusler based multiferroic composites, linked to the training of young scientist, who will understand how to tailor their properties for our demands, will be of great benefit to Canada and it will have an impact not only on the area of advanced materials, but also on manufacturing, health, safety and the environment.