This project will investigate the magnetoelectric behaviour of Y-type hexaferrites, a multiferroic class of materials known for their complex magnetic structures extending over many unit cells. These materials exhibit strong coupling between magnetic and electric order: their magnetic structures can be tuned by external magnetic fields, and the resulting changes directly influence the electric polarisation. This interplay underpins a wide range of potential applications, including magnetic field sensors, microwave components, and emerging radar-absorbing materials.
The first phase of the project will focus on synthesising powder samples across a range of compositions and establishing their chemical and magnetic properties. Once these materials are well characterised, the work will move on to detailed studies of their magnetoelectric behaviour. A combination of laboratory methods and neutron-based techniques—including small-angle neutron scattering and inelastic neutron spectroscopy—will be used to probe magnetic correlations, field-induced changes, and low-energy excitations.
The project is expected to provide deeper insight into how magnetoelectric coupling can be tuned in Y-type hexaferrites, supporting the development of improved materials for advanced electromagnetic and sensing technologies.