Supermagnetostriction in self-assemblies of nanocubes

The self-assembly of magnetic nanoparticles provides a route towards smart material design; e.g., for magnetic actuation, optically responsivity and shape-morphing capability. Here, using small-angle x-ray scattering, we will test a recently predicted “super” magnetostriction effect in ordered arrays of cobalt-ferrite nanocubes: a large (up to 4 %) magnetic-field-driven change in the lattice parameter corresponding to the simple cubic arrangement of the nanocubes. The effect should be well within the Q resolution of BM28 in the proposed scattering setup, and its reproducibility will be studied upon cycling of the nanocube magnetization direction. A second system comprising ordered arrays of magnetite nanocubes will also be studied, where low temperature (< 200 K) will be required. The results will provide a test of state-of-the-art model calculations for magnetic nanoparticle assemblies and, therefore, an important contribution to the field of smart magneto-micromechanical systems.