Cryogenic Strain/Stress Cells
Cryogenic Strain/Stress Cells are compact, high-precision devices designed to apply finely tunable mechanical deformation to single-crystal and thin-film samples under cryogenic conditions and high magnetic field environments. These cells employ piezoelectric actuators for reversible, continuous control and integrated capacitive displacement/load sensors for accurate, real-time measurement, ensuring exceptional stability and repeatability across a broad temperature range. Depending on configuration, the devices support both compressive and tensile loading, with typical displacement ranges of ±3–6 μm or forces up to ~45 N, all with sub-micron precision.
Optimized for use in dilution refrigerators, cryostats, and PPMS setups, the cells are fully compatible with magnetic fields. Their robust flexure-based mechanical design ensures homogeneous stress or strain distribution while minimizing sample shear and misalignment.
Key applications include:
- Strain and stress-dependent transport and magnetoresistance studies.
- Raman, infrared, and optical spectroscopy under controlled deformation.
- X-ray diffraction and synchrotron experiments with tunable mechanical fields.
- Investigations into superconductivity, nematic order, magnetism, and topological phases.
QTS provides comprehensive support, including:
- Custom spacer fabrication for cell integration tailored to cryostat requirements.
- Training modules covering calibration, piezo control, cryogenic wiring, and thermal anchoring.