Research project Functional Quasicrystals? – Harnessing the complexity of aperiodic intermetallic compounds
We will investigate the unique properties of quasicrystals that can be linked to their specific structures. Of particular interest are magnetic and electronic properties that have recently been discovered in several Tsai-type quasicrystals.
Newly discovered materials would widen the horizon for new applications in, for example, data and energy storage. Furthermore, the project will result in the development of new infrastructure that enables measurements at extremely low temperatures and high pressures.
The research is done within five different topical areas that all work towards the main goal which is to radically expand the number of known quasicrystals through innovative synthetic methods and combinations of carefully chosen metals.
Project description
The discovery of aperiodic order in quasicrystals (QCs) implied a paradigm shift in crystallography that altered our fundamental view on ordered matter and redefined the concept of crystalline order. Although there has been considerable progress in determining and understanding the atomic structures of QCs, a most decisive question still remains to be answered: Do QCs exhibit distinct (and perhaps novel) electronic and magnetic properties that are introduced by the quasiperiodicity of the structure? Answering this question and identifying these properties will help transforming QCs from being merely crystallographic curiosities into functional materials.
This project aims at a conclusive and unambiguous characterization of the fundamental correlations between aperiodic atomic structure and physical properties in QCs
The research program is divided into five project components, aimed at the implementation of the topical research areas.
Project members
Project managers
Ulrich Häussermann
Members
Andreas Rydh
Universitetslektor, docent
