Grant: Research Tools and Instruments - Category 1 (<$150,000)

Variable temperature facility to study quantum materials in very high magnetic fields The subject of our research is to explore the behaviour of electrons in ""quantum materials"" -- materials in which the interactions between electrons often bring about new properties and even new states of matter. These collective phenomena, which include superconductivity and magnetism, manifest themselves at low temperature, typically well below room temperature. The proposed equipment will allow us to measure the thermo-electric properties of materials as a function of temperature, from one degree Kelvin (-272 degrees Celsius) to room temperature and above. This will enable us to investigate several avenues of research in our group at Sherbrooke. For example, we intend to elucidate the connection between high-temperature superconductivity -- one of the most fascinating properties of materials, with great technological potential -- and the possible presence of a quantum critical point at which magnetism disappears in both copper oxides and iron arsenides. This equipment grant will enable us to implement variable temperature measurements in a unique sample environment, where materials are subjected to the largest magnetic field in Canada.