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DE-SC0012311: Using Neutrons as a Probe to Study Magnetic Excitations in Strongly Correlated Electron Materials

Award Status: Active
  • Institution: William Marsh Rice University, Houston, TX
  • UEI: K51LECU1G8N3
  • DUNS: 050299031
  • Most Recent Award Date: 04/10/2023
  • Number of Support Periods: 10
  • PM: Fitzsimmons, Michael
  • Current Budget Period: 07/01/2023 - 06/30/2024
  • Current Project Period: 07/01/2023 - 06/30/2026
  • PI: Dai, Pengcheng
  • Supplement Budget Period: N/A
 

Public Abstract

This DOE project addresses the fundamental physical processes that give rise to novel collective phenomena such as quantum spin liquids and unconventional superconductivity. The materials known to exhibit these collective phenomena are strongly correlated electron materials. The understanding of these phenomena will not only enhance our knowledge of basic science, but also gives us the ability to design materials with novel and predictable properties. Specifically, the experimental program integrates neutron scattering experiments with lab-based materials efforts, aimed at the fundamental understanding of the magnetic order and spin excitations in several families of quantum spin liquid candidate materials and unconventional superconductors. The objective of the program is to explore and understand the microscopic origins of various phases of candidate quantum spin liquid materials and unconventional superconductors using neutrons as a probe. Neutron scattering experiments will be performed mostly at the high-flux isotope reactor (HFIR) and Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory. However, the project will also utilize other world-class facilities in the U.S., Asia, and Europe when similar capabilities are unavailable at HFIR and SNS. The impact of this research program will include the training of the next generation of neutron scatterers, particularly students focusing on correlated electron materials, and elucidating the nature of the exotic properties of the correlated electron materials. We will also organize Frontier Condensed Matter Physics Seminars, where we invite speakers around the world to present online lectures and post the talks on YouTube, to facilitate discussion and dissemination of scientific results.  



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