Small dc magnetic field response of magnetoelectric laminate composites

Abstract

We have found that small long-type magnetoelectric (ME) laminate composites of magnetostrictive Tb1-x Dyx Fe2-y and piezoelectric Pb(Zr,Ti) O3 are quite sensitive to small dc magnetic field (Hdc) variations, when driven by a constant ac magnetic field. The sensitivity limit is Hdc < 10-3 Oe (10-7 Tesla) using a constant amplitude low frequencies drive, and Hdc < 10-4 Oe (10-8 Tesla) under resonant drive. In addition, an unusual ME switching effect-a 180° phase shift-was observed, in response to changes in the sign of a small Hdc. © 2006 American Institute of Physics.