Detection of Sub-pT Field of Magnetic Responses in Metals and Magnetic Materials by Highly Sensitive Magnetoresistive Sensors

We developed a measurement system capable of detecting magnetic responses in various material samples. The system utilizes an excitation coil to apply an alternating magnetic field within the frequency range of 1-10 kHz. The magnetic field generated in the samples was detected using a highly sensitive magnetoresistive sensor. The system demonstrated a detection lower limit in the sub-pT range for magnetic fields arising from magnetic responses such as eddy currents and magnetization changes. The frequency dependence of the detected signal intensities correlated well with the physical mechanisms underlying the magnetic responses. Notably, the distance between the excitation coil and the magnetic sensor was maintained at 300 mm. These results, which demonstrate the detection of a sub-pT magnetic field using a highly sensitive magnetic sensor, have not been previously reported and provide valuable insights for advancing practical applications in non-destructive testing and clinical diagnostic imaging.