Highlights
- Researchers from Iranian universities identified two rare earth intermetallic compounds with potential for advanced spintronics and quantum device technologies.
- PrPtBi and PrNiBi exhibit non-collinear magnetism and band inversion, suggesting future applications in low-power memory and logic systems.
- The study remains theoretical, with potential commercialization 5-10 years away.
- Highlights the importance of early-stage research in emerging electronic technologies.
A groundbreaking study led by Dr. Leila Mikaeilzadeh and colleagues from the University of Zanjan and University of Mohaghegh Ardabili (Iran) has identified two promising rare earth intermetallic compounds—PrNiBi and PrPtBi—as possible candidates for use in spintronics (a field of science and technology that leverages the intrinsic spin of electrons, in addition to their charge, for information processing and storage) and topological quantum devices. Published in Scientific Reports, the study harnesses advanced density functional theory (DFT + U) simulations to analyze the electronic and magnetic behavior of these half-Heusler compounds.
Using first-principles calculations, the team discovered that both materials exhibit non-collinear magnetism and a phenomenon known as band inversion—a hallmark of topological materials. The most stable magnetic configuration in both compounds was antiferromagnetic, with complex exchange interactions that hint at the possibility of skyrmions—tiny, topologically protected magnetic textures ideal for data storage and logic applications. Importantly, this is a cautious extrapolation based on known physics.
The study revealed that PrPtBi, due to the heavy platinum atom, exhibits stronger spin–orbit coupling and deeper band inversion (1.3 eV vs. 0.4 eV for PrNiBi), suggesting greater potential for robust topological behavior. These features make both compounds highly attractive for future low-power memory, logic, and sensor technologies.
However, the research remains pre-commercial and purely theoretical. The compounds have not yet been synthesized or tested experimentally for their magnetic textures or spin transport behavior. Further steps would include crystal growth, physical characterization, and spin dynamics measurements, placing commercialization timelines at least 5 to 10 years away, depending on research funding and industrial interest.
The use of rare earth element praseodymium (Pr) underscores the strategic significance of this research for rare earth supply chains. As rare-earth-enabled spintronic materials inch closer to real-world use, discoveries like these reinforce the growing importance of early-stage R&D in shaping future electronics. But a reminder, this topic remains in the scientific realm.
Leila Mikaeilzadeh, Farhad Khoeini (University of Zanjan)
Ali Tavana (University of Mohaghegh Ardabili)
Source: Scientific Reports, July 12, 2025
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