Opportunities in High Magnetic Field Science

High-field magnets—those that operate at the limits of the mechanical and/or electromagnetic properties of their structural materials—are used as research tools in a variety of scientific disciplines. The study of high magnetic fields themselves is also important in many areas such as astrophysics. Because of their importance in scientific research and the possibility of new breakthroughs, the National Science Foundation asked the National Research Council to assess the current state of and future prospects for high-field science and technology in the United States. This report presents the results of that assessment. It focuses on scientific and technological challenges and opportunities, and not on specific program activities. The report provides findings and recommendations about important research directions, the relative strength of U.S. efforts compared to other countries, and ways in which the program can operate more effectively.Table of ContentsFront MatterExecutive Summary1 Introduction2 Scientific Challenges and Opportunities with Higher Fields3 Technological Challenges and Opportunities for Developing Higher Fields4 Conclusions and RecommendationsAppendix A Nobel Prizes for Research That Used or Significantly Affected the Development of High Magnetic FieldsAppendix B High-Field Magnet Facilities Around the WorldAppendix C GlossaryAppendix D Meeting AgendasAppendix E Input from the CommunityAppendix F Biographies of Committee Members and StaffAppendix G Tutorial on High-Temperature SuperconductivityAppendix H Tutorial on Frontiers in Vortex Physics