Visualization of magnetization reversal processes by dynamic Kerr microscopy

Abstract Dynamic Kerr microscopy enables the analysis of structural defects in magnetic materials and their impact on the demagnetization behavior. Using new visualization techniques, it is possible to image the demagnetization process in the microstructure. It has been found that residual stresses and inclusions in soft magnets, for example, will impede magnetization. In permanent magnets, abnormally large grains, for example, will demagnetize first and then cause an accelerated demagnetization of adjacent grains.