Researchers led by the U.S. Department of Energy's SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory confirmed altermagnetism by analyzing manganese telluride with specialized X-rays. Although the material was previously classified as an antiferromagnet, scientists detected direct evidence of chirality, an asymmetric twisting in its magnetic structure that defines the new phase. This state combines alternating electron spins that yield zero net magnetization with the capacity to carry spin currents typically reserved for ferromagnets. The unique mixture of structural stability and information transmission could enable faster computers and advanced memory architectures.
Key points
The confirmation introduces a third class of magnetism beyond conventional ferromagnets a…: The confirmation introduces a third class of magnetism beyond conventional ferromagnets and antiferromagnets recognized for nearly 90 years.
The dual properties of structural stability and spin-current transmission offer solutions…: The dual properties of structural stability and spin-current transmission offer solutions to critical constraints in modern electronics.
This newly confirmed magnetic state could lead to faster computers, energy-efficient data…: This newly confirmed magnetic state could lead to faster computers, energy-efficient data centers, and advanced quantum technologies.
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- Date:
- November 4, 2026
- Source:
- SLAC
- Summary:
- For nearly 90 years, scientists believed magnetism fell into just two categories, but researchers have now confirmed a remarkable third type called altermagnetism. Using specialized X-rays, they uncovered a unique magnetic signature that proves these materials behave differently from conventional magnets. Altermagnets combine stability with the ability to efficiently carry information, potentially overcoming major limitations in today's electronics. The discovery could lead to faster computers, more efficient data centers, and breakthroughs in quantum technology.
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For nearly 90 years, physicists have divided magnetic materials into two main categories: ferromagnets and antiferromagnets. Now, scientists have confirmed that a third type exists, revealing a previously unrecognized form of magnetic behavior that could lead to major advances in computing and electronics.
The breakthrough comes from a research team led by the U.S. Department of Energy's SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory. In a study published in Science, the researchers presented compelling experimental evidence for altermagnetism, a distinct magnetic phase that combines important characteristics of the two traditionally recognized types.
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