SBIR Phase I: Picotesla Magnetic Sensor using MgO-Based Magnetic Tunnel Junction Technology

This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will explore the feasibility of developing an ultra-low noise magnetic field sensing technique with picotesla resolution using arrays of MgO-based magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJs). These sensor arrays will be patterned into a fully-active Wheatstone bridge configuration to detect ultra-small magnetic fields. The superior sensitivity of MgO-based MTJ sensors exceeds the performance of existing thin film magnetic sensor technologies by an order of magnitude, allowing the promised performance. If successful, this research will deliver an ultra-sensitive, portable magnetic sensor at a low cost. The creation of mass-produced picotesla-sensitivity magnetic sensors using MgO-based MTJs will have a commercial impact both for existing markets requiring improved performance, such as the automotive and industrial sectors, and for emerging markets, such as those focused on magnetoencephalography (MEG), magneto-cardiography (MCG), and bio-magnetic detection of viruses and bacteria. The increased sensitivity and decreased cost of magnetic sensing components will push the capabilities of these applications.