NIST has developed a tiny, highly sensitive magnetic sensor about the size of a grain of rice. The atomic magnetometer requires little power but can detect very weak magnetic fields. Technology Review has included this breakthrough on its annual list of 10 technologies most likely to change the way we live.
The miniaturized sensors could lead to portable MRI machines, tools for detecting buried explosives, and remote evaluation of mineral deposits. NIST’s work in miniaturizing magnetic sensors could greatly expand their use in the coming decade.
Source: https://www.nist.gov/news-events/news/2008/03/nist-mini-sensor-may-change-way-we-live
Keywords: Magnetometers, Magnetic Fields, MRI Technology, NIST Standards, Atomic Sensing
