Remanent magnetization
Natural remanent magnetization (NRM) is the vector sum of different magnetization components acquired in successive geological processes over history.
In paleomagnetic remanence studies, these components can be separated, identified and dated. Separation of remanence components is performed either by step-wise alternating field (AF) or by thermal demagnetization. AF demagnetization does not destroy the sample.
The most sensitive equipment for remanence measurements is the He-free superconducting SQUID magnetometer (2G Enterprises), which is mostly used for paleomagnetic studies of rock and sediment samples and studies on magnetic mineralogy. The device is connected to a AF demagnetizer.
