Outstanding values of magnetic anisotropy establish a host of interesting properties from magnetic hardness to magnetostriction and magnetooptic activity. These properties are of interest for electronic devices or information storage in computers or video recorders. In fact, we pursue work on information storage materials within the newly established Center for Magnetic Recording Research on campus. We study their O intercalation behavior or questions of electron localization versus metallic conductivity or superconductivity. We plan to study partial halogen insertion as well as high pressure and electrochemical preparations and single crystal growth of these spectacular materials.
Intermetallic compounds can also form metal hydrides.
Here, hydrogen can behave in a more or less metallic manner, but it is, indeed, an unusual metal. Highly electronegative and much lighter than any other element, it is a fascinating probing ground for studying the way magnetic order evolves or for creating new superconductors. It was recently discovered that hydrogen is stored in intermetallic compounds with a density twice that of liquid hydrogen, and is available within seconds in this form. These materials may become important for an economy based on hydrogen, with the development of hydrogen-powered cars, planes, and utility applications. We also found that metal hydrides support catalytic reactions of interest, among others, for electrochemical cells.