Magnetic induction heating: where will the field go next?

Under the broader concept of magnetic induction (MI), in which magnetic fields are used to induce a current in conductors, magnetic induction heating (MIH) is known in oncotherapy for tumour ablation in what is called magnetic hyperthermia. However, a multitude of wider applications of MIH are beginning to shape opportunities at the interface of materials fabrication. This includes organic and inorganic synthesis, a comprehensive spectrum of biomedical needs, sensing, diagnostics, industrial processing, sustainable technologies, power generation and locomotion. A comparative analysis of reported MI studies is given grouped by application type, providing insight into the different materials employed and temperatures achieved. While MIH is predominantly based on magnetic materials that dissipate energy through hysteresis and Néel/Brownian relaxation losses, electrically conductive materials can also generate heat via eddy-current-induced Joule heating, although they remain relatively underexplored in biomedical applications. We examine the field parameters, the set-ups used and experimental configurations to provide a clear overview of the current landscape. In chemistry these applications will interest researchers in areas such as materials synthesis, electrocatalysis and sustainable chemistry. In the biomedical landscape, we explore studies from neuropathology to endometriosis and ocular disease, and even dental applications. Thus, we enable both specialists and researchers from adjacent fields to contribute with fresh perspectives. This review examines MIH through a new lens, highlighting underrepresented and recent developments and identifying promising directions to accelerate progress across different areas of science.