IMP researchers succeed in advanced developments designed for key industries

By Svetlana Sytina
The Ukrainian Times

Above all, metal physics forms the theoretical basis of materials science. In recent years, however, researchers of the G.V. Kurdyumov Institute of Metal Physics (IMP) under the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine have succeeded in developments designed for machine building, air-space equipment, microelectronics, power engineering and other industries.

One of such developments, the so-called amorphous nanocrystalline strip is the unique material whose structure bears similarity to windowpane. At the same time, this material is characterized by highly magnetic properties, mechanical strength and resistance to corrosion.

Roasted amorphous nanocrystalline material is effectively used for designing transformers, as well as manufacturing industrial and household heaters.
These apparatuses radiate heat relating to the comfortable infrared spectrum, which is similar to sunlight.

Other materials developed by scientists of the Institute include superconductors in which electric resistance disappears completely, thanks to a low temperature. These materials can be used for producing superconducting wire to transmit electric power without energy loss. In addition, superconductors have the unique capability to interact with a magnetic field in a particular way that opens up new vistas for transportation, for example, superconducting trains running on magnetic tracks.

Also, Ukrainian metal physicists consider the simple model of interaction of superconductors with magnets one of their achievements. The model is worthwhile for the space industry and can be used for creating the systems of contactless coupling of modules (antennas, research units, etc.) with an orbital station.

Currently, scientists of the Institute are conducting research on a magnetic memory for a form, to be precise, management of a change in the shape
of materials by means of magnetic fields and not a temperature. Given that new materials show better properties than the traditional ones, experts of the G.V. Kurdyumov Institute of Metal Physics consider this research too promising.

Additional information: metall@imp.kiev.ua