Rewritable magnetic patterning: think tiny Etch A Sketch

Rewritable magnetic patterning: think tiny Etch A Sketch
Isaiah Gray/Provided. The magnetic strength of a sample of iron rhodium is shown before writing, after writing, and after erasing, with the darker shades of red representing stronger magnetism.
Isaiah Gray/Provided. The magnetic strength of a sample of iron rhodium is shown before writing, after writing, and after erasing, with the darker shades of red representing stronger magnetism.

Cornell researchers have demonstrated a technique for writing, erasing and rewriting microscopic magnetic patterns onto a material – a concept tested by writing and erasing “Cornell” eight times onto the sample. This achievement will aid in the research of magnetism for ultrafast computer memory and other applications.