Polarization of radio-frequency magnetic fields in magnetic induction measurements with an atomic magnetometer
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: We explore properties of the radio-frequency atomic magnetometer, specifically its sensitivity to the polarization of an oscillating magnetic field. This aspect can be particularly relevant to configurations where the sensor monitors fields created by more than one source. The discussion, illustrated by theoretical and experimental studies, is done in the context of the signals produced by electrically conductive and magnetically permeable plates in magnetic induction tomography measurements. We show that different components of the secondary magnetic fields create the object response depending on the properties of the material, with the polarization of the radio-frequency field varying across the object's surface. We argue that the ability of the sensor to simultaneously detect different field components enables the optimization of measurement strategies for different object compositions.
Source: Physical Review Applied
Authors: L.M. Rushton, L.M. Ellis, J.D. Zipfel, P. Bevington, W. Chalupczak
Institution: National Physical Laboratory
Language: English
Subfield: Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W4400196605