SQUID Magnetometry
Access & Information for Outside Users
Quantum Design MPMS3 Squid Magnetometer Capabilities
Temperature range T = 1.8–400 K
Magnetic field range H = −7 to 7 T
SQUID DC Mode and Vibrating Sample Magnetometer (VSM)
AC Magnetic Measurement Option
Fiber Optic Sample Holder (FOSH); In situ sample illumination at λ = 436–850 nm
Electrical Transport Option (ETO); AC electrical measurements (10 μΩ–10 MΩ)
More information on our MPMS3 can be found in this product video by Quantum Design
usage rates
Trained User Access: $50/hr, UC Users || $100/hr Outside Users
Data Collection by Rinehart Group: $75/hr, UC Users || $136.25/hr Outside Users
Training: $50/hr, UC Users || $72.50/hr, Outside Users
Instrument usage rates are calculated to offset cost of instrument maintenance, gas replacement, normal wear and tear, and minor catastrophes. The instrument management, maintenance, training and repairs are coordinated by researchers in the Rinehart group. We strive to make the facility available as much as possible and ask that others respect the instrumentation and report errors or issues immediately so we can keep the magnetic data flowing!
Sample testing, analysis, consultation, & instrument access
If you only have a few samples to be characterized, our lab can run them and send the data files to you.
If you envision using the instrument long-term for many samples, you can receive training to use the instrument on your own. See Training & Assistance Contacts to become an independent user. The procedure is subject to circumstances of usage but will generally proceed as described below:
Obtaining Qualified Instrument User Status
Familiarizing yourself with our Standard Operating Procedure
Training (~1 hr) on instrument-specific sample-loading, data collection, and sample removal procedures.
Supervised second usage where any confusion about the SOP and sample preparation can be cleared up. These sessions can be used to run user samples.
Upon receiving training approval, users will be given access to an online calendar and will be free to sign up for time and use the instrument independently.
Please keep in mind that the training covers how to prepare samples, program data collection and run the instrument, but does not cover analysis, modeling or interpretation of magnetic data. We are happy to help out when possible, but evaluating magnetic data can require a deep knowledge of the physical system being studied and can be quite time-consuming. If applicable, a collaboration may be a better approach in academic cases or consultation in commercial usage cases.
The time required to characterize a sample using the MPMS3 varies widely based on the type of information you wish to obtain. Runs can last 1-2 h to full days. If you will require a session that will take more than 8 h, please consult with the instrument manager to arrange a time.
Sample preparation overview
Two commonly used sample holders for molecular magnets and colloidally-synthesized magnetic nanoparticles. At left is a holder for air-stable samples. At right is a sealed quartz tube used for air-sensitive samples and samples containing liquids. Non-powdered metals or films can be adhered to brass or quartz sample rods.