MAGNETIC ACCELERATION GENERATING NEW INNOVATIONS AND TACTICAL OUTCOMES SBIR/STTR (MAGNITO SBIR/STTR)

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The objective of the Magnetic Acceleration Generating New Innovations and Tactical Outcomes (MAGNITO) program is to support the discovery, synthesis, and characterization of new, more powerful magnets with either a saturation magnetization or maximum energy product higher than that of any known material. This entails finding entirely new physics, chemistries, and structure for ultra-powerful soft and/or hard magnets. The discovery of Nd2Fe14B, with its complex structural chemistry and extraordinary properties, suggests that other complex magnetic materials with three or more distinct elements, and similar chemical and structural features, are waiting to be discovered. Advances in computational physics that can calculate Bsat, magneto-crystalline anisotropy, and Curie temperature (TC), as well as computational materials discovery using high-throughput techniques, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML), are needed to reveal new materials structures not previously examined and at a pace faster than ever before. To achieve effective materials discovery, ARPA-E anticipates successful applicants will comprise teams with various expertise such as: Computational materials discovery, e.g., high-throughput computation, AI/ML, generation of new structures, thermodynamic stability models, and phase diagrams; Solid state chemistry, high-throughput synthesis and characterization of new phases, including (but not limited to) specialized ability in subnitrides, high temperature borides, and carbides; Magnetism physics and computational methods; Magnetic measurement and interpretation of data, including hysteresis curves; high-throughput autonomous laboratories; and Potential applications of ultra-powerful magnets. While ARPA-E does not anticipate an active role for application engineering in this program’s materials discovery projects, all applicants must consider manufacturing and cost during their materials searches. Applicants should identify a potential application or market for their new magnetic materials and ensure that the new material can meet the performance requirements. For example, some motor applications require a Curie temperature greater than 200°C. Applicants should also discuss the supply chain for their new magnetic materials and perform a technoeconomic analysis for the new magnets which considers feedstock supply availability and manufacturing process scalability. For example, most magnet applications will require the ability to mass produce pellets of magnetic material, hence the need to consider any future constraints in this area. In addition, owing to the wide range of potential applications for ultra-strong magnets, ARPA-E encourages applicants to include both common and specialty elements in their search for new magnetic materials.