Research Projects

Half Metallic Ferromagnets (HMFM) and Antiferromagnetic (AFM) insulators are crucial building blocks for spintronics. HMFM are ferromagnetic metals with near perfect spin polarization, a crucial factor in spintronics. However, some HMFM exhibit 100% spin polarization at very low temperatures, making it challenging to retain spin polarization near room temperature for practical applications. Antiferromagnetic insulators, on the other hand, exhibit exotic functionalities such as magnetoelectricity, weak ferromagnetism, and piezomagnetism. The emerging area of antiferromagnetic spintronics heavily relies on AFM insulators, providing a fertile ground for fundamental physics and exciting opportunities for device fabrication. Transition Metal Oxides (TMOs) exhibit these functionalities, leading to the possibility of tuning devices based on magnetic field, electric field, and stress. However, there are major limitations in taking oxides from lab to device prototype, such as finding ways to push and retain functional properties towards room temperature for practical applications. Interface engineering is a promising way to tackle this problem and can lead to novel emerging phenomena. The project aims to synthesize chrome-based hybrids optimized for large Tunnel Magneto resistance (TMR) and design and test lab prototypes for magnetoresistive sensors. The project also proposes encapsulating both chrome oxides inside carbon nanotubes (CNT) using a cost-effective, green, and scalable route, providing opportunities for direct patterning and novel interface effects. The ultimate goal is to explore the feasibility of nano-spintronic devices based on individual CNTs filled with multifunctional magnetic oxide.