ERI: exploratory synthesis and characterization of CE-based novel magnetic materials

The National Science Foundation Division of Chemical, Bioengineering, Environmental, and Transport Systems awarded the University of Central Oklahoma $200,000 on September 1, 2026, under the Engineering program (CFDA 47.041) for exploratory synthesis and characterization of cerium-based magnetic materials.

The research project will synthesize and characterize cerium-based compounds containing transition metals and heavy chalcogen elements to develop stronger permanent magnets and materials with unusual electronic properties. Work will employ crystal growth, solid state reactions, thin film deposition, and plasma-assisted treatments to enable precise control of composition and microstructure. Structural, magnetic, and electronic characterization will establish relationships between crystal structure, composition, and magnetic properties to guide development of improved magnetic materials for electric motors and electronic devices. The project will integrate student laboratory research in materials creation, measurement, and analysis to enhance training in materials science and engineering.

The award runs through August 31, 2028, with place of performance in Edmond, Oklahoma.

Abstract

Cerium is the most abundant rare earth element. IT can substitute for scarce rare earth elements in magnets and electronics. This research project will examine how materials with cerium can be made to produce stronger permanent magnets. In addition, new magnetic materials will be created with unusual electronic behaviors. New compounds will be made by combining cerium with other elements and by carefully controlling material and processing conditions. Understanding how these quantum materials form and how their properties change will guide the development of more efficient magnetic materials for technologies. These include electric motors and new electronic devices. This project also will contribute to science and engineering education. The PI will involve students in laboratory research related to materials creation, measurement, and analysis. This will enhance their training in materials science and engineering. This research project will focus on exploratory synthesis and systematic characterization of cerium-based magnetic materials and engineered magnetic structures. The research will emphasize cerium compounds containing transition metals and heavy chalcogen elements that may host unusual electronic states, together with cerium iron magnetic materials designed to improve magnetic performance through controlled composition and processing. Materials will be synthesized using crystal growth, solid state reactions, thin film deposition, and plasma-assisted treatments that enable precise control of composition and microstructure. Structural, magnetic, and electronic characterization will establish relationships between crystal structure, composition, and magnetic properties, providing guidance for development of improved magnetic materials. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.- subawards are not planned for this award.