The Problem:
Current magnetic inductor technology utilizes the single phase, hard or soft, ferromagnetic materials or an air-core. They both have difficulty in achieving high permeability and ferromagnetic resonance frequency, because the soft phase has a higher saturation magnetization and smaller magnetic anisotropy field than the hard phase. Furthermore, the conventional magnetic inductors suffer from magnetic loss of the magnetic materials used in the inductor, thereby causing a decrease in quality (Q) factor.
The Solution:
Researchers at the University of Alabama have developed a novel integrated magnetic inductor, comprised of inductor coils, magnetic films, and a substrate. Importantly, the magnetic film is placed between the neighboring inductor coils, and the thickness (t) of the magnetic film is greater than the coil thickness (h). In addition, the invented magnetic conductor utilizes exchange-coupled magnetic materials, a mixture of magnetically hard and soft phases, to yield the most optimal results from both materials.
Cross-Sectional and Top Views of Magnetic Inductor
Exchange-Coupled Magnetic Materials in Composite Form
Benefits:
• Minimizes the effect of magnetic loss of the magnetic materials on inductor electrical characteristics.
• Utilizes the improved dynamic magnetic properties of the exchange-coupled magnetic materials.
• Over 20% increases in L and Q factors in comparison to air-core inductors, higher Q factor than conventional.
The University of Alabama Research Office of Innovation and Commercialization (OIC) is a non-profit corporation that is responsible for commercializing University of Alabama technologies and for supporting University research. At OIC, we seek parties that are interested in learning more about our technologies and commercialization opportunities, and we welcome any inquiries you may have.
