The promise of strong spin-orbit coupling: Novel materials with novel properties for novel devices

Discoveries of new materials can lead to improved technologies - especially if relevant properties can be widely varied and precisely controlled. New materials may exhibit unexpected phenomena that motivate theoretical breakthroughs and quantitative models for optimizing devices. We discuss single crystal data for the R-type ferrites BaFe_2±xRu_4±xO₁₁ and the Ruddleson-Popper phase Sr₂IrO₄, in which strong spin-orbit interactions lead to unusual magnetic, dielectric and transport properties suitable for novel devices.