StAR PROPOSAL Fall 2012

Proposal Title: SUNY Oneonta Magnetic Thin Film Research Education Project Point Person and Contact Information: Dr. S. Labroo, [email protected] Dr. J.H. Michels, [email protected] Department of Physics and Astronomy Amount requested: $19640 Proposal Summary: This proposal requests funds aimed at program improvement based on recommendations from the 2006 External Review. Specifically, new instrumentation is requested for the enhancement of upper level laboratory and research capabilities. This enhancement is part of the Physics Department’s continuous systematic upgrade base which has utilized past funding from the infrastructure cycle funds and the fund for science and technology. We believe these instruments provide opportunities for training our students in advanced experimental techniques, intra- and extramural collaborations, and student engagement with faculty research. Furthermore, it supports the college’s Strategic Plan SP 2010 in Teaching, learning, and Scholarship, as well as Student Engagement and Sustainability.

A. Proposal Significance and Objectives A1. Significance An understanding of the magnetic properties of materials is essential to our knowledge of the physical properties of matter. Important considerations in magnetic thin film research include the determination of material resistance changes as a function of an external applied magnetic field. Prior research in this area enabled development of methods and materials for permanent magnet applications, magnetic semiconductors, and magnetic recording. A measurement methodology known as the Hall Effect is essential to investigations of thin film properties and has most often been used in the analysis of semiconductor materials. Specifically, the functional relationship of the Hall voltage upon the current and magnetic field magnitude is of critical importance to the understanding of magnetic properties of a specific magnetic material. However, Hall Effect measurements require very precise electrical current and voltage measurements across the magnetic thin film materials that are immersed in an external magnetic field. Further, the measurement precision requirements for magnetic metallic thin film alloy materials are even more stringent than those for the above mentioned semiconductor materials. It is the investigation of the metal alloy materials that is at the heart of the SUNY Oneonta Magnetic Thin Film Research Education Project. A2. Specific Objectives and Requirements In the past, the Hall Effect measurements conducted at SUNY Oneonta have been conducted using an internally developed preliminary „breadboard‟ apparatus with limited precision capabilities. At this time, it is absolutely essential that we improve this capability to enable us not only to provide quality measurements that improve our understanding of the physical phenomenon, but also to more competently engage in our extramural collaborations. Specifically, it will foster our student engagement in the valuable training opportunity being offered to our students by SUNY Binghamton at their thin film fabrication facility. We view this collaboration as an essential component of the Physics Department‟s commitment to provide our students with individual attention at an institution of our size. B. Contribution to the SP2010 B1. Potential for Teaching, Learning and Scholarship Recently, the approach of the SUNY Oneonta Magnetic Thin Film Research Education Project has been extended to include two independent measurement methodologies. In addition to our current internally fabricated Hall Effect device, we have recently enhanced our capability via the purchase of a Magneto-Optical Kerr Effect (MOKE) apparatus. As noted above, our Hall Effect measurements have provided the only means to assess the magnetic thin film properties. Alternatively, the MOKE apparatus utilizes a sophisticated optical modulation technique based on the optical Kerr Effect. For this methodology, the polarization properties of optical laser light are analyzed to determine the functional dependence of the material magnetization upon the external magnetic field. As such, this dual capability now provides SUNY Oneonta with remarkable research tool for the assessment of magnetic thin film materials. Further, analysis of stress and strain considerations on the magnetic properties of materials is of considerable importance regarding the diagnostics of mechanical systems. This phenomenon, known as magnetostriction, has important mechanical engineering, bio-engineering and biomedical applications. Thus, the approach utilized in this technology research project has broad multi-disciplinary applications for possible inter-departmental collaborations within SUNY Oneonta. Finally, this research project now provides our students with a broad range of topics pertinent to their education in physics. Specifically, it now fosters their understanding of concepts involved in Introduction to Solid State Physics (PHY 318), Intermediate Electricity and Magnetism (PHYS 333), Electronics/Circuits I (PHYS 335), Electronics/Circuits II (PHYS 338), Optics and Lasers (PHYS 340), Statics (ENGR 214), and Strength of Materials (ENGR 315). Further, the methods used here are being considered for inclusion in two of the required courses for the physics major: the Intermediate Physics Laboratory (PHYS 287) and/or the Advanced Physics Laboratory course (PHYS 382). This will impact 2030 students per year. B2. Student Engagement and Extramural/Intramural Collaborations Drs. Labroo and Michels have laid the ground work for an important SUNY Oneonta and SUNY Binghamton collaboration (POC: Dr. Bruce White, Physics Department, SUNY Binghamton). Our long range plan also includes pursuing a potential collaboration with SUNY Binghamton‟s Center for Autonomous Solar Power (POC: Dr. Tara Dhakal ). These collaborations will provide the opportunity for

our students to utilize portions of some state of the art fabrication and testing facilities at SUNY Binghamton. Specifically, we have been invited to use their sputtering vapor deposition, etching, and thickness measuring capabilities to enhance the quality of our thin film coatings. With regard to the latter collaboration, it may also, if successful, enable us to provide our students an excellent opportunity to engage in research involving sustainable energy methods. This collaboration provides not only an excellent educational opportunity for our students, but also provides us with the potential to greatly reduce costs associated with expensive equipment purchases. Further, it will enable us to participate in collaborative proposals with the larger educational institutions. However, to fully participate in these collaborations, it is essential that we enable our students to contribute high quality measurements from within our institution. The grant activity noted below in Section C1 demonstrates our desire to expand these capabilities beyond our home department. We emphasize that our students and faculty from other departments within SUNY Oneonta are welcome and encouraged to participate in the research activities. B.3 Sustainability Magnetic thin film research has been essential to the investigation of solar powered electronic devices. An exciting opportunity exists via our collaboration with Dr. Bruce White, SUNY Binghamton Physics Department. Specifically, former SUNY Oneonta physics student Josh Hewlett is now working as a graduate student with Dr. White as his advisor. Mr. Hewlett‟s thesis work involves working on photovoltaic tin oxide semi-conductor materials. We are optimistic that future opportunities in this technology area will benefit from this collaboration. Further, our long range plan includes pursuing collaboration with SUNY Binghamton‟s Center for Autonomous Solar Power (POC: Dr. Tara Dhakal). If successful, this important collaboration will significantly contribute to enabling our students‟ participation in current sustainable energy research. C. External Revenue Generation Our collaborations, noted above, position us well to obtain future funding from external sources. We certainly intend to pursue proposals with agencies such as NSF. However, as noted above, it is essential that we demonstrate our expertise in this technology area by contributing quality data with quality instrumentation. Further, our past performance demonstrates our ability to successfully seek such funding. Dr. Labroo‟s achievements are noted in Section C1 and Dr. Michels brings considerable expertise based on his 36 years as a research physicist and electrical engineering at a federal research lab in addition to his success in leading a research team on Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) Phase I and II contracts. D. Impact for Operational Efficiency and Effectiveness N/A E. Opportunity for collaboration As further discussed in Section B2 above, collaborations with the Physics Department and Center for Autonomous Solar Power at SUNY Binghamton have begun. These initiatives will focus on Hall effect measurements on novel magnetic materials. The acquisition of the Hall Measurement System will allow our students to conduct state-of-the-art measurements on campus in support of this collaboration. F. Assessment for Proposal Submittal During the past decade, the SUNY Oneonta Physics Department‟s thin film research activities have provided the opportunity for several of our students to gain experience with hands on experimental techniques and dissemination of information via conference presentations. In addition, several awards and grants have been forthcoming. Each is summarized below in reverse chronological order. Extraordinary Hall Effect in Dilute Magnetic Thin Films – Matthew Cohen Spring 2012 American Physical Society (NY Section), SUNY Binghamton, 20 April, 2012 Spring 2012 Student Research & Creative Activity Day, April 18, 2012 Study of the Hall Effect in Thin CuNi Films – Luke D‟Imperio Student Research Day, April 2010 Life of the Mind Faculty Research Day, October, 2010 Study of the Hall Effect in Thin Metallic Films with Magnetic Impurities,

Andrew Greene, Steve Button, and Corey Lemley Student Research Day, April, 2008 NY State Section APS Meeting at Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, April 2008. This poster was judged as first prize winner of a $150 cash award. PC-Controlled Hall Effect Measurement Set-up with Graphic User Interface - Andrew Greene and Christopher Fremgen Student Research Day, April, 2008. Study of Ferromagnetic Ni and Gd Samples using a Vibrating Sample Magnetometer- Dustin Winn, Karen Norton Student Research Day Physics & Astronomy Academic Achievement Awards Day (April 2003) Assembly and Calibration of a Vibrating Sample Magnetometer”, by Dustin Winn, Karen Norton Faculty Research Show (March 2003) Assembling and Calibrating a Vibrating Sample Magnetometer (VSM) – Chung Wong and Joshua Vanderpool Annual Rochester Symposium for Physics Students (RSPS), March 2002. Investigation of the High Temperature Magnetic Phase in (Tb1-xNdx)Mn2Ge2 – Michael Oakes, Tom Gibson American Physical Society, Minneapolis, MN, March 2000 In addition, several of our former students working on this technology project have continued with their graduate education. Specifically, Luke D‟Imperio is currently a physics graduate student at Boston College, Andrew Greene is at CNSE, University at Albany, Corey Lemley is at Tokyo Electra, Steve Button is at Binghamton University, Dustin Winn graduated with a Master‟s degree in Engineering from RPI, is employed as an engineer., Chung Wong is at General Electric, and Michael Oakes is employed at Lockheed-Martin. G. Activity Assessment As in the past, the assessment of our achievements in this project will be based on student and faculty presentations, conference participation, journal paper acceptance, and the success of our students to enter graduate school. Our achievements list presented in Section F provides ample evidence of our past activity assessment success. Please note the Appendix section which lists which provides further details regarding our past achievements. H. Implementation strategy and timeline During the 2013 spring semester, two of our students will continue with our magnetic thin film research activities. One of these students will be able to utilize our optical methodology via the MagnetoOptic Kerr Effect (MOKE) system recently purchased using the 2012 infrastructure cycle funds. The other student, however, will be required to collect the Extraordinary Hall effect measurements with our limited „breadboard‟ Hall effect system prior to the acquisition of the HMS-300 device. Fortunately, this student is a junior and will have the opportunity to continue this project next semester with the new system. Budget Request Details Complete Hall measurement System HMS-300 $17,000 Sample Mounting Boards (5) $300 Spring Clip Sample Mounting Board $550 Indium-Tin Compound for sample bonding $300 S&H and transport insurance – Hall System $400 Optical Polarizers (4) $600 Optical Polarizer Mounts (4) $460 S&H $30

$19,640 Quotations will be made available upon request.

StAR – Appendix A The Chief Information Officer has reviewed this proposal and verified potential costs as it relates to technology: [ ] Yes [ ] No [x] Not Applicable Comments: There are no additional technology needs associated with this proposed project. The Associate Vice President for Facilities has reviewed this proposal and verified potential costs as it relates to facilities: [ ] Yes [ ] No [x] Not Applicable Comments: This apparatus is a bench top setup with no impact on the facility space. The Budget Director has reviewed this proposal and verified potential costs: [ ] Yes [ ] No [x] Not Applicable Comments: As per a discussion with Julia Roseboom The Senior Executive Employee Services Officer has reviewed this proposal and verified potential costs as it relates to human resources: [ ] Yes [ ] No [x] Not Applicable Comments: There are no human resources required. Other consultation (be specific): A five year plan for the enhancement of the physics and astronomy laboratories has been discussed with the Physics Department Chair, Dr. Hugh Gallagher.

Appendix - Past Achievements The following is a partial list of prior grants related to this initiative: 2009-10 NSF grant, “MORE MPG: Maximizing Opportunities for Retention in Energy-related Majors - Physics and Geosciences”, for $999,129. Request was declined. 2 2 2007-08 Follow up grant to PR EPS entitled, “PR EPES: Preparation, Recruitment, Retention and Excellence in the Physical and Earth Sciences” for $427,000. Request not funded. 2007-08 Student-faculty research grant entitled, “Hall Effect in Thin Metallic Films” to the Committee on Research. Request funded in the amount of $550. 2006-07 Professional development grant from the Provost‟s office in the amount of $795.00 to present at the March APS meeting in Denver, CO. Fall 2004: Supplemental request to an NSF grant entitled, “Preparation, Recruitment, Retention & 2 Excellence in the Physical Sciences (PR EPS)”. Request funded in the amount of $46,000. Spring 2003: NSF – STEP grant entitled, “Preparation, Recruitment, Retention & Excellence in the Physical Sciences”, for $808,000. Request funded. November 2001: Student-Faculty research grant entitled, “Assembling and Calibrating a Vibrating Sample Magnetometer”, for $500. Request funded at $350. May 2001: Professional Development & Quality of Working Life Grant entitled, “Study of the Magnetic Phases in R-Mn-Ge Alloys”, for $1115. Request funded at $800. November 2000: Student-Faculty research grant entitled, “Study of the Output Characteristics of a Continuous CO2 Laser”, for $500. Request funded at $400. April 2000: W. B. Ford grant entitled, “Reaction Kinetics of Chloro-Fluoro-Carbons (CFC‟s) Using a Continuous-Wave Carbon Dioxide Laser”, for $2000. Request funded at $2000. November 1999: Student-Faculty research grant entitled, “Investigation of the High Temperature Magnetic Phase in (Tb1-xNdx)Mn2Ge2” for $850. Request funded at $850. January 1999: Faculty / Professional Staff Research Grant proposal entitled, “Investigation of the High Temperature Magnetic Phases in Rare-Earth Transition Metal Germanides” for $1400. Request funded at $1000.

FY12/13 StAR Proposal -- Budget Template Proposal Title: Point Person and contact information Name: Dr. Sunil Labroo Campus Phone: 436-3323 Campus e-mail: [email protected] Department/Unit: Physics and Astronomy

Budget Detail please enter whole dollars; enter fractions of positions in decimals (e.g. 1/2 time = 0.50) Number of Recurring 1-time Costs by year FY2013-14 FY2014-15 FY2015-16 Use of Funds Description Positions (ongoing) Personnel Costs: Ongoing Salaries (PSR) Temporary Salaries (Temp Service) Student Employment (Student Temp Service) Other Than Personnel Costs (OTPS) and Campus Recharges: Materials & Supplies Travel (not related to Professional Development) Contractual Services Professional Development General Equipment Contracts related to Equipment Maintenance Campus Storehouse Campus Telephone Campus Mail Campus Print Shop Capital Costs -- renovation Capital Costs -- new construction Total Costs:

$0 $0 $0 $1,150

$18,490

0.00

Other Funding Sources:

$0

$19,640

Projected Amount Available:

New Funds (i.e. projected revenue generation) Savings Reallocation of funds from existing resources (include account number, funding source)

Total Projected Other Funding Sources:

Total 1-time Costs

$0

$0

$0

$1,150 $0 $0 $0 $18,490 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $19,640