A sacrificial magnet concept for field dependent surface science studies

We demonstrate a straightforward approach to integrating a magnetic field into a low-temperature scanning tunneling microscope (STM) by adhering an NdFeB permanent magnet to a magnetizable sample plate. To render our magnet concept compatible with high-temperature sample cleaning procedures, we make the irreversible demagnetization of the magnet a central part of our preparation cycle. After sacrificing the magnet by heating it above its Curie temperature, we use a transfer tool to attach a new magnet in-situ prior to transferring the sample into the STM. We characterize the magnetic field created by the magnet using the Abrikosov vortex lattice of superconducting NbSe2. Excellent agreement between the distance dependent magnetic fields from experiments and simulations allows us to predict the magnitude and orientation of magnetic flux at any location with respect to the magnet and the sample plate. Our concept is an accessible solution for field-dependent surface science studies that require fields in the range of up to 400 mT and otherwise detrimental heating procedures. Accessible magnetic field generation. Selectable field strength and orientation.Compatible with high-temperature sample preparation.

Automated summary

We present a simple method for integrating a magnetic field into a low-temperature scanning tunneling microscope (STM) by attaching an NdFeB permanent magnet to a magnetizable sample plate. To ensure compatibility with high-temperature sample cleaning procedures, we incorporate the irreversible demagnetization of the magnet into our preparation cycle. By sacrificing the magnet and attaching a new one in-situ, we can predict the magnitude and orientation of magnetic flux at any location with respect to the magnet and sample plate. Our concept is a feasible solution for field-dependent surface science studies that require fields up to 400 mT and involve detrimental heating procedures. Accessible magnetic field generation. Selectable field strength and orientation. Compatible with high-temperature sample preparation.