sensors-logo

Journal Browser

Journal Browser

Advances in Magnetic Sensors and Their Applications

A special issue of Sensors (ISSN 1424-8220). This special issue belongs to the section "Physical Sensors".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 20 September 2024 | Viewed by 4728

Special Issue Editors


E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Microelectronics and Nanoelectronics, Faculty of Information and Communications Technology, University of Malta, MSD 2080 Msida, Malta
Interests: microelectronics; micro-electromechanical systems; accelerator technology; sensors; systems and interfacing; precision measurement; magnetic measurement
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Photon Science Division of the Paul Scherrer Institute, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland
Interests: accelerator physics and technology; synchrotron light sources; free electron lasers; undulators and wigglers; permanent magnets; superconductivity; high-temperature superconductors (HTS); HTS REBCO bulks and tapes; magnetic measurement instrumentation; hall sensors; cryogenics

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Advancements in the design and applications of magnetic sensors are at the forefront of many disciplines, ranging from physics to medicine. Magnetic sensors are also very prominent, being present in diverse technological fields, from atomic physics to space applications.

The aim of this Special Issue is to provide a forum for colleagues to publish their recent research, development, and innovation results related to advances in magnetic sensors and their applications. These include topics such as the following:

  • Fundamental concepts and techniques of magnetic sensing;
  • Magnetic sensors for big science subsystems including acceleration magnets, insertion devices, space applications, etc.;
  • Bio-electromagnetic sensing;
  • Characterisation of novel magnetic structures and their measurements;
  • Industrial magnetic sensing;
  • Sensing of magnetic material behaviours including harmonics, DC offsets, hysteresis, power losses, and coupled phenomena;
  • High-frequency and low-frequency magnetic sensors;
  • Sensing for the characterisation of permanent magnets, electromagnets, and superconducting magnets;
  • Electromagnetic device applications (including motors, transformers, etc.);
  • Magnetic sensor interfaces with instrumentation;
  • Sensing and magnetic standards;
  • Modelling, measurement, characterisation, and calibration of magnetic sensors;
  • Destructive and non-destructive magnetic sensing;
  • Magnetic sensors for micro and nanoscale applications;
  • Innovative applications of magnetic sensors;
  • Any other relevant topics.

Dr. Nicholas Sammut
Dr. Marco Calvi
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Sensors is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • magnetic sensors
  • magnetic sensing applications

Published Papers (5 papers)

Order results
Result details
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

18 pages, 4645 KiB  
Article
Key Contributors to Signal Generation in Frequency Mixing Magnetic Detection (FMMD): An In Silico Study
by Ulrich M. Engelmann, Beril Simsek, Ahmed Shalaby and Hans-Joachim Krause
Sensors 2024, 24(6), 1945; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24061945 - 18 Mar 2024
Viewed by 535
Abstract
Frequency mixing magnetic detection (FMMD) is a sensitive and selective technique to detect magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) serving as probes for binding biological targets. Its principle relies on the nonlinear magnetic relaxation dynamics of a particle ensemble interacting with a dual frequency external magnetic [...] Read more.
Frequency mixing magnetic detection (FMMD) is a sensitive and selective technique to detect magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) serving as probes for binding biological targets. Its principle relies on the nonlinear magnetic relaxation dynamics of a particle ensemble interacting with a dual frequency external magnetic field. In order to increase its sensitivity, lower its limit of detection and overall improve its applicability in biosensing, matching combinations of external field parameters and internal particle properties are being sought to advance FMMD. In this study, we systematically probe the aforementioned interaction with coupled Néel–Brownian dynamic relaxation simulations to examine how key MNP properties as well as applied field parameters affect the frequency mixing signal generation. It is found that the core size of MNPs dominates their nonlinear magnetic response, with the strongest contributions from the largest particles. The drive field amplitude dominates the shape of the field-dependent response, whereas effective anisotropy and hydrodynamic size of the particles only weakly influence the signal generation in FMMD. For tailoring the MNP properties and parameters of the setup towards optimal FMMD signal generation, our findings suggest choosing large particles of core sizes dC>25 nm with narrow size distributions (σ<0.1) to minimize the required drive field amplitude. This allows potential improvements of FMMD as a stand-alone application, as well as advances in magnetic particle imaging, hyperthermia and magnetic immunoassays. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Magnetic Sensors and Their Applications)
Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 6653 KiB  
Communication
Performance of Fluxgate Magnetometer with Cu-Doped CoFeSiB Amorphous Microwire Core
by Bin Wang, Weizhi Xu, Xiaoping Zheng, Sida Jiang, Zhong Yi, Peng Wang and Xiaojin Tang
Sensors 2024, 24(1), 309; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24010309 - 4 Jan 2024
Viewed by 1141
Abstract
In this study, we investigated the effects of Cu doping on the performance of CoFeSiB amorphous microwires as the core of a fluxgate magnetometer. The noise performance of fluxgate sensors primarily depends on the crystal structure of constituent materials. CoFeSiB amorphous microwires with [...] Read more.
In this study, we investigated the effects of Cu doping on the performance of CoFeSiB amorphous microwires as the core of a fluxgate magnetometer. The noise performance of fluxgate sensors primarily depends on the crystal structure of constituent materials. CoFeSiB amorphous microwires with varying Cu doping ratios were prepared using melt-extraction technology. The microstructure of microwire configurations was observed using transmission electron microscopy, and the growth of nanocrystalline was examined. Additionally, the magnetic performance of the microwire and the noise of the magnetic fluxgate sensors were tested to establish the relationship between Cu-doped CoFeSiB amorphous wires and sensor noise performance. The results indicated that Cu doping triggers a positive mixing enthalpy and the reduced difference in the atomic radius that enhances the degree of nanocrystalline formation within the system; differential scanning calorimetry analysis indicates that this is due to Cu doping reducing the glass formation capacity of the system. In addition, Cu doping affects the soft magnetic properties of amorphous microwires, with 1% low-doping samples exhibiting better soft magnetic properties. This phenomenon is likely the result of the interaction between nanocrystalline organization and magnetic domains. Furthermore, a Cu doping ratio of 1% yields the best noise performance, aligning with the trend observed in the material’s magnetic properties. Therefore, to reduce the noise of the CoFeSiB amorphous wire sensor, the primary goal should be to reduce microscopic defects in amorphous alloys and enhance soft magnetic properties. Cu doping is a superior preparation method which facilitates control over preparation conditions, ensuring the formation of stable amorphous wires with consistent performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Magnetic Sensors and Their Applications)
Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 6143 KiB  
Article
Magnetostatic Simulation and Design of Novel Radiofrequency Coils Based on Transverse Field Current Elements for Magnetic Resonance Applications
by Giulio Giovannetti, Marcello Alecci and Angelo Galante
Sensors 2024, 24(1), 237; https://doi.org/10.3390/s24010237 - 31 Dec 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 701
Abstract
Radiofrequency (RF) coils are key components in Magnetic Resonance (MR) systems and can be categorized into volume and surface coils according to their shapes. Volume RF coils can generate a uniform field in a large central sample’s region, while surface RF coils, usually [...] Read more.
Radiofrequency (RF) coils are key components in Magnetic Resonance (MR) systems and can be categorized into volume and surface coils according to their shapes. Volume RF coils can generate a uniform field in a large central sample’s region, while surface RF coils, usually smaller than volume coils, typically have a higher Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) in a reduced Region Of Interest (ROI) close to the coil plane but a relatively poorer field homogeneity. Circular and square loops are the simplest and most used design for developing axial field surface RF coils. However, for specific MR applications, the use of dedicated transverse field RF coils can be necessary or advantageous. Building on a previously developed and validated RF coil simulator, based on the magnetostatic approach, here we explore the potential applications of novel multiple axial field and transverse field surface RF coils in non-standard configurations. We demonstrate via numerical simulations that simple volume RF coils, matching a Helmholtz-like design, can be built with two identical transverse field RF coils separated by a given distance. Following well-known principles, the SNR of such novel configurations can be improved by a factor of up to √2 by combining two 90° rotated coils, producing, inside a central ROI, a circularly polarized B1 field. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Magnetic Sensors and Their Applications)
Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 31075 KiB  
Article
Research on a Wire Rope Breakage Detection Device for High-Speed Operation Based on the Multistage Excitation Principle
by Zhou Zhou, Xiuheng Zhang, Ran Deng, Lu Han, Meng Zhou, Zhuangzhuang Ma, Xiangdong Chang and Yuxing Peng
Sensors 2023, 23(23), 9298; https://doi.org/10.3390/s23239298 - 21 Nov 2023
Viewed by 847
Abstract
Wire rope breakage, as damage easily produced during the service period of wire rope, is an important factor affecting the safe operation of elevators. Especially in the high-speed elevator operation process, the problem of magnetization unsaturation caused by speed effects can easily lead [...] Read more.
Wire rope breakage, as damage easily produced during the service period of wire rope, is an important factor affecting the safe operation of elevators. Especially in the high-speed elevator operation process, the problem of magnetization unsaturation caused by speed effects can easily lead to deformation of the magnetic flux leakage detection signal, thereby affecting the accuracy and reliability of wire breakage quantitative detection. Therefore, this article focuses on the problem that existing wire rope detection methods cannot perform non-destructive testing on high-speed elevator wire ropes and conducts design and experimental research on a high-speed running wire rope breakage detection device based on the principle of multi-stage excitation. The main research content includes simulation research on the multistage excitation, structural design, and simulation optimization of open–close copper sheet magnetizers and the building of a detection device for wire rope breakage detection experimental research. The simulation and experimental results show that the multistage magnetization method can effectively solve the problem of magnetization unsaturation caused by the velocity effect. The multistage excitation device has a good wire breakage recognition effect for speeds less than or equal to 3 m/s. It can detect magnetic leakage signals with a minimum of four broken wires and has good detection accuracy. It is a new and effective wire breakage detection device for high-speed elevator wire rope, providing important technical support for the safe and reliable operation of high-speed elevators. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Magnetic Sensors and Their Applications)
Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 12842 KiB  
Article
A Novel Tactile Sensing System Utilizing Magnetorheological Structures for Dynamic Contraction and Relaxation Motions
by Yu-Jin Park, Bo-Gyu Kim, Eun-Sang Lee and Seung-Bok Choi
Sensors 2023, 23(22), 9035; https://doi.org/10.3390/s23229035 - 8 Nov 2023
Viewed by 1021
Abstract
It is well known that the rheological properties of magnetorheological (MR) material change under a magnetic field. So far, most works on MR materials have been oriented toward actuating characteristics instead of sensing functions. In this work, to realize dynamic tactile motion, a [...] Read more.
It is well known that the rheological properties of magnetorheological (MR) material change under a magnetic field. So far, most works on MR materials have been oriented toward actuating characteristics instead of sensing functions. In this work, to realize dynamic tactile motion, a spherical MR structure was designed as a sensor, incorporating a magnetic circuit core to provide maximum dynamic motion. After manufacturing a prototype (sample), a sinusoidal magnetic field of varying exciting frequency and magnitude was applied to the sample, and the dynamic contraction and relaxation motion depending on the exciting magnetic field was observed. Among the test results, when 10% deformation occurred, the instantaneous force generated was from 2.8 N to 8.8 N, and the force when relaxed was from 1.2 N to 3.5 N. It is also shown that the repulsive force within this range can be implemented using an acceptable input current. The special tactile sensing structure proposed in this work can be used as a sensor to measure the field-dependent viscoelastic properties of human tissues such as stomach, liver, and overall body. In addition, it could be usefully applied to robot surgery, because it can mimic the dynamic motions of various human organs under various surgical conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Magnetic Sensors and Their Applications)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Planned Papers

The below list represents only planned manuscripts. Some of these manuscripts have not been received by the Editorial Office yet. Papers submitted to MDPI journals are subject to peer-review.

Title: Parameter-Dependency-Study for Signal Genaration in Frequency Mixing Magnetic Detection (FMMD)
Authors: Ulrich M. Engelmann1,*, Beril Simsek1 Ahmed Shalaby1, and Hans-Joachim Krause2,3,*
Affiliation: 1 Medical Engineering and Applied Mathematics, FH Aachen University of Applied Sciences, 52428 Jülich, Germany 2 Institute of Biological Information Processing, Bioelectronics (IBI-3), Forschungszentrum Jülich, 52428 Jülich, Germany 3 Institute of Nano- and Biotechnologies (INB), FH Aachen University of Applied Sciences, 52428 Jülich, Germany
Abstract: Magnetic nanoparticles (MNP) are investigated with great interest for biomedical applications in diagnostics (e.g. imaging: magnetic particle imaging (MPI)), therapeutics (e.g. hyperthermia: magnetic fluid hyperthermia (MFH)) and multi-purpose biosensing (e.g. magnetic immunoassays (MIA)). Here, we present results on the relatively new biosensing application of frequency mixing magnetic detection (FMMD) from a simulation perspective. In general, we ask how the key parameters of MNP (core size, size distribution, hydrodynamic size and magnetic anisotropy) affect the FMMD signal generation, as well as how varying the applied field influences the signal. From this, we predict the most effective combination of MNP intrinsic properties and applied field parameters for maximum signal generation in FMMD

Title: Faulty Cell Detection by Magnetic Sensors
Authors: Nantakan Wongkasem
Affiliation: Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Abstract: This research proposes the design of electromagnetic sensors to detect human faulty cells based on the cells' electromagnetic characteristics and properties.

Title: Feature Extraction of Lubricating Oil Debris Signal based on Segmentation Entropy with an adaptive threshold
Authors: Baojun Yang , Wei Liu, Sheng Lu, Jiufei Luo*, and Denghua Zheng
Affiliation: School of Advanced Manufacture Chongqing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Chongqing 400065, China
Abstract: Ferromagnetic debris present in lubricating oil acts as a crucial communication carrier, offering an effective reflection of the wear condition in mechanical equipment and enabling the prediction of remaining useful life. In practical applications, the detection signals collected through inductive sensors not only contain debris signals but also include noise terms. Weak debris features are susceptible to distortion, posing a significant challenge to the identification and quantitative estimation of debris signatures. In this paper, a feature-extraction method for debris signal based on information entropy with an adaptive threshold was proposed. Additionally, five identification indicators were designed to eliminate spurious debris signals and enhance detection accuracy. The efficacy and performance of the proposed framework are validated through simulations and an oil experiment. We also analyze the de-noising results of three traditional signal processing methods for comparison. The proposed approach excels in debris identification, feature preservation, and exhibits significant potential for application in other pulse-signal-based detection areas.

Title: Development of an Overhauser Base Station Magnetometer with Omnidirectional Sensor used for Submarine Magnetic Survey
Authors: Jianxiang Xu
Affiliation: Jilin University
Abstract: The marine station magnetometer is deployed under the sea through an anchoring placement method for monitoring magnetic field fluctuations. In order to achieve excellent performance of magnetometers at different latitudes, we have designed a scalar quantum Overhauser magnetometer with omnidirectional properties. The low-frequency coil of the marine station magnetic sensor consists of two types of coils: tilted coils and orthogonal coils. The tilted coil serves as the main coil for generating axial magnetic field components and magnetic field components that is orthogonal to axis. The orthogonal coil is used as a compensating coil for suppressing axial magnetic field components and enhancing magnetic field components that is orthogonal to axis. The combination of these two coils allows the polarized magnetic field to generate a relatively uniform magnetic field in three mutually orthogonal directions and provides the sensor excellent omnidirectionality. The omnidirectional performance of the sensor is tested by using a constant weak magnetic field generation device, obtaining initial amplitude values of the Larmor signal between 1.288V and 3.904V. The experimental results agree with theoretical expectations. Additionally, the sensitivity of the Overhauser magnetometer is evaluated using the constant weak magnetic field generation device. The result shows that when the sensor is perpendicular to the constant magnetic field and rotates along the axial direction, the sensitivity ranges from a minimum of 0.0040nT@5s to a maximum of 0.0087nT@5s. When the sensor is parallel to the constant magnetic field, the sensitivity along the axial direction ranges from a minimum of 0.0073nT@5s to a maximum of 0.0177nT@5s. Finally, multiple Overhauser magnetometers were tested in the outdoor environment synchronously. The sensitivity is estimated as 0.0065nT@5s.

Title: Online Measurement Method and System of the Excitation Impedance of Current Transformer Based on Norton's Theorem
Author: Gan
Highlights: An online measurement method is proposed and a system is established for detecting the excitation impedance of current transformers (CTs) based on Norton's theorem in the form of effective value. A differential method is proposed to enable the accurate measurement of the secondary current variation which is less than 1‰ of the secondary current.

Title: Electromagnetic wave scattering by a metal isotropic body in a lossless environment with magnetic sensor excitation
Authors: Panayiotis Vafeas
Affiliation: Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
Abstract: This paper investigates the electromagnetic fields, being scattered by a metal spherical object in the vacuum environment. A time-harmonic magnetic dipole source, far enough, emits at low frequencies the incident field, oriented arbitrarily in the three-dimensional space. The aim is to find a detailed solution to the scattering problem at spherical coordinates, useful for data inversion. Based on the theory of low frequencies, the Maxwell-type problem is transformed into Laplace’s or Poisson’s interconnected equations, accompanied by the proper boundary conditions on the perfectly conducting sphere and the radiation conditions at infinity, which are solved gradually. Approximating the static and the first three dynamic terms is sufficient, while the terms of higher orders are negligible.

Back to TopTop