Altermagnetism confirmed as a third form of magnetism

· Science

SLAC scientists report conclusive proof of altermagnetism, a third type of magnetism beyond the ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic categories that had stood for nearly 90 years. Using specialised X-rays, the team found a distinct magnetic signature showing these materials behave differently from conventional magnets. The confirmation matters because altermagnets could enable faster, more energy-efficient electronics and new quantum computing technologies. A separate study found that a simple mechanical squeeze can dramatically alter the magnetic and electrical behaviour of altermagnet materials, suggesting their properties can be tuned for devices — an early step toward engineering them rather than merely observing them.

Why it matters：If altermagnets can be reliably made and tuned, they could supply a new materials platform for low-power spintronics and quantum devices, an area where chipmakers and physics labs worldwide are investing heavily.

Key points

  • The two-category view of magnetism had held for nearly 90 years.
  • Specialised X-rays revealed a magnetic signature distinct from conventional magnets.
  • A second study showed mechanical strain can dramatically shift altermagnet properties.

Sources (original reporting)

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