Theory of the Nuclear Magnetic 1/T1 Relaxation Rate in Conventional and Unconventional Magnets

One of the best ways to “lift the lid” on what is happening inside a given material is to study it using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Of particular interest are NMR 1/T1 relaxation rates, which measure how fast energy stored in magnetic nuclei is transferred to surrounding electrons.   This thesis develops a detailed, quantitative theory of NMR 1/T1 relaxation rates, and shows for the first time how they could be used to measure the speed at which energy travels in a wide range of magnetic materials.   This theory is used to make predictions for”Quantum Spin Nematics”, an exotic form of quantum order analogous to a liquid crystal.  In order to do so, it is first necessary to unravel how spin nematics transport energy. This thesis proposes a new way to do this, based on the description of quarks in high-energy physics.   Experiments to test the ideas presented are now underway in laboratories across the world.