Challenges in Crystal Growth, Structural Characterization and Magnetism of Bulk Actinide Materials

Actinides, with their unique electronic configurations, are pivotal in advancing research on quantum phenomena and the nuclear industry, promising notable technological breakthroughs. Their 5f-states exhibit dual behavior, involving competing interactions and strong spin-orbit coupling, which manifest in complex magnetic properties like multi-k antiferromagnetic ordering, multipolar ordering, topological superconductivity, and mixed valence states. The intriguing structural and magnetic characteristics of actinide systems are central to scientific inquiry, despite challenges posed by their toxicity, radioactivity, and high reactivity. This presentation will introduce the challenges in crystal synthesis, structural characterization, and magnetic property analysis of actinide oxides. These compounds open new avenues for understanding the unique properties of actinides beyond their typical oxides. The discussion will cover methods for growing less commonly studied actinide telluride and selenide crystals and provide insights into their crystal structures. Additionally, the presentation will explore the challenges associated with delineating the magnetic properties of these materials, aiming to enhance our understanding of their complex behaviors.