TITLE A Simple Method to Generate Ultrahigh-Density Ferromagnetic Materials Download NCTD UMA 08-07 PRIMARY INVENTORS Greg N. Tew, Ph.D. DESCRIPTION This technology provides a simple method to generate ordered, ultrahigh-density arrays of ferromagnetic nanoparticles from novel, metal-containing block copolymers using processing steps commonly practiced in the semi-conductor industry. The novel block copolymers are designed such that upon a one-step casting and alignment process followed by a mild heat treatment, ultrahigh-density ferromagnetic media can be produced (>1 terabit per square inch). The use of these novel block copolymers eliminates the need to subsequently incorporate ferromagnetic metals or metal oxides into the copolymer matrix. APPLICATIONS Next-generation, ultrahigh-density magnetic storage/recording media Giant magnetoresistive (GMR) materials for disk drive read/write heads Magnetic-based sensors ADVANTAGES Simplified fabrication process: This technology uses directed assembly of novel, metal-containing block copolymers to eliminate the multiple processing steps needed otherwise to incorporate ferromagnetic metals or metal oxides into the copolymer matrix. Oxidatively stable magnetic media: The in situ generation densely functionalizes and stabilizes the ferromagnetic nanoparticles.   High versatility: The wide choice in the metal-containing di- or multi-block copolymer structures provides high versatility to meet the unique needs of various end-use applications. PATENT STATUS Patent Pending LICENSING STATUS Available for Licensing or Sponsored Research DOCKET UMA 08-07 NOTES FOR MORE INFORMATION Ling X. Shen, Ph.D., M.B.A. Licensing Officer Commercial Ventures & Intellectual Property Phone: 413-545-5276 EMail: lxshen@@research.umass.edu