News release overview
World's first observation of magnetic fields of individual lattice planes achieved using Hitachi's atomic-resolution holography electron microscope
Paving the way for practical use of high-performance materials and energy-saving devices to realize a carbon-neutral society
Tokyo, July 4, 2024 --- Hitachi, Ltd. (TSE: 6501, Hitachi), Kyushu University, RIKEN, and HREM Research Inc. (HREM) today announced the world's first observation of magnetic fields of individual lattice planes.*1 This was achieved by using Hitachi's atomic-resolution holography electron microscope and a method enabling magnetic field observation of samples with uneven structures and compositions (hereinafter referred to as non-uniform samples)*2 such as magnetic multilayer films, which have been difficult to observe so far, in collaboration with National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST) and National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS).
Observation was accomplished by developing a technology with a higher degree of electron-holography precision and automated post-image-capture focus correction. With this, it is now possible to observe magnetic fields of the atomic-layer level at local boundaries between materials (interfaces), which greatly affects the physical characteristics of materials that include non-uniform samples and characteristics of electronic devices. In the future, we will contribute to the advancement of fundamental science by elucidating magnetic phenomena*3 occurring at the atomic-layer level and realization of a carbon-neutral society through the development of high-performance magnets and highly functional materials used in electrification for decarbonization as well as energy-saving devices for reducing total energy usage required in our daily life.
The research results have been published online in Nature, an international scientific journal, on July 4, 2024 (0 AM in Japan time).*4
*1 Stand-alone nanogrid: A small-scale power grid that enables local production and consumption of energy by having one's own energy source using solar power, or gas associated with hot springs.
*2 AC (alternating current): Current and voltage change periodically when electricity flows. Applies in products that are plugged in to an outlet for use.
*3 DC (direct current): Current and voltage are always consistent when electricity flows. Applies in products that use batteries.
