Breakthrough in opto-magnetic technology: 5-fold increase in torque efficiency

Tohoku University researchers achieved a significant advancement in opto-magnetic technology, observing a torque five times more efficient than conventional magnets. By developing cobalt-platinum alloy nanofilms, they enhanced magnetic torque due to platinum's quantum effects. This allows for the same opto-magnetic effect with only one-fifth of the previous light intensity, potentially enabling faster and more energy-efficient devices. The discovery has important implications for light-based spin memory and storage technologies.