Field-induced magnetic anisotropy in a dilute dispersion of γ Fe2O3 particles

Abstract

The application of an alternating field (AF) of 60-mT peak to an isotropic sample containing dilutely dispersed particles of γFe2O3 from magnetic tape causes it to become magnetically anisotropic. The anisotropy of initial susceptibility so produced can be described by an oblate ellipsoid of revolution with the unique axis aligned with the AF direction. A consequence of this effect is that an isothermal remanent magnetization (IRM) is then more easily acquired if the direct field is applied perpendicular to the previously applied AF direction than if it is applied parallel to this direction. The anisotropy of IRM acquisition at direct fields between 20 and 40 mT is an order of magnitude greater than the anisotropy of initial susceptibility and is 40% of the maximum possible value.