Strong permanent magnet gradient deflector for Stern-Gerlach-type experiments on molecular beams

TL;DR

This paper presents a cost-effective, portable, and scalable permanent magnet gradient deflector for molecular beam experiments, achieving high magnetic field gradients comparable to electromagnets.

Contribution

It introduces a novel design using neodymium magnets for deflecting paramagnetic beams, combining performance with practicality.

Findings

Achieves magnetic field of 1.1 T and gradient of 330 T/m

Offers a portable and scalable alternative to electromagnets

Demonstrates effective deflection of paramagnetic nanoclusters, molecules, and atoms

Abstract

We describe the design, assembly, and testing of a magnet intended to deflect beams of paramagnetic nanoclusters, molecules, and atoms. It is energized by high-grade permanent neodymium magnets. This offers a convenient option in terms of cost, portability, and scalability of the construction, while providing field and gradient values (1.1 T, 330 T/m) which are fully comparable with commonly used electromagnet deflectors.