Definition and Explanation of Magnetostriction

Magnetostriction is a phenomenon where a magnetic material changes its shape or size when subjected to a magnetic field. The change in shape or size is due to the interaction between the magnetic domains and the crystal lattice structure of the material. The magnetostriction effect was first discovered by James Joule in 1847 while experimenting with iron wires. The effect is small but measurable and is observed in various magnetic materials such as iron, nickel, cobalt, and their alloys.

When a magnetic material is exposed to a magnetic field, the magnetic domains within the material align themselves with the field direction. This alignment causes a change in the dimensions of the crystal lattice of the material. If the magnetic field is removed, the material returns to its original shape. The magnitude of the magnetostriction effect depends on the strength of the magnetic field and the properties of the material.

How Magnetostriction is Measured and Calculated

The magnetostriction effect is measured by observing the change in length or volume of the magnetic material when subjected to a magnetic field. The change in length can be measured using strain gauges, piezoelectric sensors, or interferometry techniques. The change in volume can be measured using the dilatometry technique. The magnetostriction coefficient is defined as the change in length or volume per unit length or volume of the material per unit magnetic field.

The magnetostriction effect can be calculated using the magnetostriction coefficient and the magnetic field strength. The magnetostriction coefficient is a material property that depends on the crystal structure and the magnetic properties of the material. The effect is usually expressed as a fraction of the original length or volume of the material.

Applications and Uses of Magnetostriction

Magnetostriction has various applications in sensor technology, actuation systems, energy harvesting, and electronic devices. It is used in magnetic sensors to detect magnetic fields and measure distances, positions, and rotations. It is also used in magnetostrictive actuators to convert electrical signals into mechanical motion. Magnetostrictive energy harvesters convert mechanical vibrations into electrical energy. Magnetostrictive materials are also used in electronic devices such as magnetic memories, magnetic field sensors, and magnetic switches.

Example: Magnetostriction in Electronic Devices

Magnetostriction is used in various electronic devices such as magnetic memories, magnetic field sensors, and magnetic switches. In magnetic memories, the magnetostriction effect is used to store and retrieve data. The magnetic domains within the memory material align themselves with the magnetic field direction, representing binary data. The magnetostriction effect is also used in magnetic field sensors to detect changes in magnetic fields. When a magnetic field is applied to the sensor, it changes the dimensions of the magnetostrictive material, which is detected as an electrical signal. Magnetostrictive switches are used to control electrical circuits by changing the magnetic properties of the switch material. When a magnetic field is applied to the switch, it changes from a low to a high resistance state, allowing or blocking the flow of electrical current.