Strain-mediated magnetoelectrics: Turning science fiction into reality

Abstract

There is currently a need for an efficient approach to control magnetism at small scales (<1 mm). Work on these magnetoelectric concepts dates back to the 19th century, when researchers believed that a material could convert electrical to magnetic energy, similar to Oersted's discovery, made by passing a current through a wire. Today, there are significant magnetoelectric research opportunities in both materials discovery and theoretical modeling efforts to advance this important area of magnetic control. Applications for these strain-mediated magnetoelectric materials range from replacing existing inefficient magnetic memory approaches to spearheading new discoveries, such as micrometer-size electromagnetic motors enabling robotic manipulation. This article and the other articles in this issue provide the motivation, background information, research opportunities, and novel applications for studying strain-mediated magnetoelectric materials. The issue is designed to encourage additional research on magnetoelectrics due to its potential impact on society through the efficient control of magnetism at the micro- and nanoscale.