L2₁ and XA Ordering Competition in Hafnium-Based Full-Heusler Alloys Hf₂VZ (Z = Al, Ga, In, Tl, Si, Ge, Sn, Pb).

Science.gov (United States)

Wang, Xiaotian; Cheng, Zhenxiang; Wang, Wenhong

2017-10-20

For theoretical designing of full-Heusler based spintroinc materials, people have long believed in the so-called Site Preference Rule (SPR). Very recently, according to the SPR, there are several studies on XA-type Hafnium-based Heusler alloys X₂YZ, i.e., Hf₂VAl, Hf₂CoZ (Z = Ga, In) and Hf₂CrZ (Z = Al, Ga, In). In this work, a series of Hf₂-based Heusler alloys, Hf₂VZ (Z = Al, Ga, In, Tl, Si, Ge, Sn, Pb), were selected as targets to study the site preferences of their atoms by first-principle calculations. It has been found that all of them are likely to exhibit the L2₁-type structure instead of the XA one. Furthermore, we reveal that the high values of spin-polarization of XA-type Hf₂VZ (Z = Al, Ga, In, Tl, Si, Ge, Sn, Pb) alloys have dropped dramatically when they form the L2₁-type structure. Also, we prove that the electronic, magnetic, and physics nature of these alloys are quite different, depending on the L2₁-type or XA-type structures.

Systematic study of hyperfine fields in Rh2 Y Z type Heusler alloys with 119 Sn impurity using Moessbauer spectroscopy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ramos, S.M.M.

1985-01-01

The magnetic hyperfine fields in the Heusler alloys Rh 2 Mn .98 Ge Sn 02 , Rh 2 Mn Ge .98 Sn .02 , Rh 2 Mn Pb .98 Sn .02 and Rh 2 Mn Sn has been studied by 119 Sn Moessbauer spectroscopy at 293 K, 77 K, 4.2 K and 293 K with applied external magnetic field. The results show that when one compare the magnetic hyperfine fields systematic with the Heusler alloys X 2 Mn Z (X = Co, Ni, Cu, Pd, and Z = s p metal), this systematic is similar to the Co alloys, although can not explained by the currents models for the Heusler alloys. (author)

Optimization of smart Heusler alloys from first principles

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Entel, Peter, E-mail: entel@thp.uni-duisburg.de [Faculty of Physics and Center for Nanointegration, CeNIDE, University of Duisburg-Essen, 47048 Duisburg (Germany); Siewert, Mario; Gruner, Markus E. [Faculty of Physics and Center for Nanointegration, CeNIDE, University of Duisburg-Essen, 47048 Duisburg (Germany); Chakrabarti, Aparna [Faculty of Physics and Center for Nanointegration, CeNIDE, University of Duisburg-Essen, 47048 Duisburg (Germany); Raja Ramanna Centre for Advanced Technology, Indore 452013, Madhya Pradesh (India); Barman, Sudipta R. [UGC-DAE Consortium for Scientific Research, Khandwa Road, Indore 452001, Madhya Pradesh (India); Sokolovskiy, Vladimir V.; Buchelnikov, Vasiliy D. [Condensed Matter Physics Department, Chelyabinsk State University, 454001, Chelyabinsk (Russian Federation)

2013-11-15

Highlights: ► We investigate the tensile deformation of single crystalline Ni–Mn–Ga stripes by DIC. ► Mechanical constraints (fixation, bending) determine the type of twin boundary formed during training in a magnetic field. ► Orientation of strain bands (45° or 84° inclination) depends on the type of twin boundary. ► The twinning stress is lower for twin boundaries inclined by 84° compared to the case of 45°. -- Abstract: The strong magnetoelastic interaction in ternary X{sub 2}YZ Heusler alloys is reponsible for the appearance of magnetostructural phase transitions and related functional properties such as the magnetocaloric and magnetic shape-memory effects. Here, X and Y are transition metal elements and Z is usually an element from the III–V group. In order to discuss possibilities to optimize the multifunctional effects, we use density functional theory calculations from which the martensitic driving forces of the magnetic materials can be derived. We find that the electronic contribution arising from the band Jahn–Teller effect is one of the major driving forces. The ab initio calculations also give a hint of how to design new intermetallics with higher martensitic transformation temperatures compared to the prototype alloy system Ni–Mn–Ga. As an example, we discuss quarternary Pt{sub x}Ni{sub 2−x}MnGa alloys which have properties very similar to Ni–Mn–Ga but exhibit a higher maximal eigenstrain of 14%.

Electronic, magnetic and thermal properties of Co{sub 2}Cr{sub x}Fe{sub 1−x}X (X=Al, Si) Heusler alloys: First-principles calculations

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Guezlane, M. [Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, University of Batna, 05000 Batna (Algeria); Baaziz, H., E-mail: baaziz_hakim@yahoo.fr [Physics Department, Faculty of Science, University of M' sila, 28000 M' sila (Algeria); El Haj Hassan, F., E-mail: hassan.f@ul.edu.lb [Université Libanaise, Faculté des Sciences (I), Laboratoire de Physique et d’Electronique (LPE), Elhadath, Beirut (Lebanon); Charifi, Z. [Physics Department, Faculty of Science, University of M' sila, 28000 M' sila (Algeria); Djaballah, Y. [Laboratoire d’étude Physico-Chimique des Matériaux, Département de Physique, Faculté des Sciences, Université de Batna, Rue Chahid Boukhlouf, 05000 Batna (Algeria)

2016-09-15

Density functional theory (DFT) based on the full-potential linearized augmented plane wave (FP-LAPW) method is used to investigate the structural, electronic, magnetic and thermal properties of Co{sub 2}Cr{sub x}Fe{sub 1−x}X (X=Al, Si) full Heusler alloys, with L2{sub 1} structure. The structural properties and spin magnetic moments are investigated by the generalized gradient approximations (GGA) minimizing the total energy. For band structure calculations, GGA, the Engel–Vosko generalized gradient approximation (EVGGA) and modified Becke–Johnson (mBJ) schemes are used. Results of density of states (DOS) and band structures show that these alloys are half-metallic ferromagnets (HMFS). A regular-solution model has been used to investigate the thermodynamic stability of the compounds Co{sub 2}Cr{sub x}Fe{sub 1−x}X that indicates a phase miscibility gap. The thermal effects using the quasi-harmonic Debye model are investigated within the lattice vibrations. The temperature and pressure effects on the heat capacities, Debye temperatures and entropy are determined from the non-equilibrium Gibbs functions. - Highlights: • We present electronic, magnetic and thermal properties of Co{sub 2}Cr{sub x}Fe{sub 1−x}X (X=Al, Si) Heusler alloys. • The calculated phase diagram indicates a significant phase miscibility gap. • The computed band structures of ternary compounds using GGA, EVGGA and mBJ schemes indicate an indirect band gap (Γ-X) for the ternary compounds Co{sub 2}FeAl, Co{sub 2}CrAl, Co{sub 2}FeSi and Co{sub 2}CrSi while both alloys have a direct band gap. • The quasi-harmonic Debye model is successfully applied to determine the thermal properties.

Magnetic properties of Heusler alloy Mn2RuGe and Mn2RuGa ribbons

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Yang, Ling; Liu, Bohua; Meng, Fanbin; Liu, Heyan; Luo, Hongzhi; Liu, Enke; Wang, Wenhong; Wu, Guangheng

2015-01-01

Heusler alloys Mn 2 RuGe and Mn 2 RuGa have been prepared by melt-spinning method successfully. Theoretical and experimental studies reveal a ferrimagnetic ground state in the two alloys. The Curie temperatures are 303 K for Mn 2 RuGe and 272 K for Mn 2 RuGa. The calculated total spin moments of Mn 2 RuGe and Mn 2 RuGa are integral values of 2.00 μ B and 1.03 μ B , respectively. And the theoretical spin polarization ratio is also quite high. However, due to the atomic disorder in the ribbons, the saturation moments of them measured at 5 K are smaller than the calculated values, especially that of Mn 2 RuGa. This coincides with the disappearance of the superlattice reflection (111) and (200) peaks in the XRD pattern of Mn 2 RuGa. Annealing Mn 2 RuGa ribbon at 773 K can enhance the atomic ordering. Both saturation magnetic moment and Curie temperature increase obviously after the heat treatment. - Highlights: • Mn 2 RuGe and Mn 2 RuGa have been prepared by melt-spinning successfully. • Ferrimagnetic ground state has been confirmed in Mn 2 RuGe and Mn 2 RuGa. • High spin polarization has been predicted in Mn 2 RuGe. • Melt-spinning can be a possible way to adjust the atomic order of Heusler alloys

Half-metallic ferromagnetism in (Z B, Al, Ga, and In) Heusler alloys ...

Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

K H SADEGHI

2018-01-03

11], and zincblende (ZB) transition-metal pnictides and chalcogenides [12–17]. Among HM ferromagnets, Heusler alloys are attractive because of their technical applications (in spin-injection devices [18], spin-filters [19], ...

Evolution of the electronic structure and physical properties of Fe2MeAl (Me = Ti, V, Cr) Heusler alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Shreder, E; Streltsov, S V; Svyazhin, A; Makhnev, A; Marchenkov, V V; Lukoyanov, A; Weber, H W

2008-01-01

We present the results of experiments on the optical, electrical and magnetic properties and electronic structure and optical spectrum calculations of the Heusler alloys Fe 2 TiAl, Fe 2 VAl and Fe 2 CrAl. We find that the drastic transformation of the band spectrum, especially near the Fermi level, when replacing the Me element (Me = Ti, V, Cr), is accompanied by a significant change in the electrical and optical properties. The electrical and optical properties of Fe 2 TiAl are typical for metals. The abnormal behavior of the electrical resistivity and the optical properties in the infrared range for Fe 2 VAl and Fe 2 CrAl are determined by electronic states at the Fermi level. Both the optical spectroscopic measurements and the theoretical calculations demonstrate the presence of low-energy gaps in the band spectrum of the Heusler alloys. In addition, we demonstrate that the formation of Fe clusters may be responsible for the large enhancement of the total magnetic moment in Fe 2 CrAl

Enhancement of magnetic properties of Co2MnSi Heusler alloy prepared by mechanical alloying method

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Rabie, Naeemeh; Gordani, Gholam Reza; Ghasemi, Ali

2017-01-01

Highlights: • Ferromagnetic Heusler alloys of Co 2 MnSi were synthesized at low temperature. • There is an at least 30% reduction in the phase formation temperature. • Saturation magnetization of alloy was increased significantly after annealing. - Abstract: Ferromagnetic Heusler alloys of Co 2 MnSi were synthesized by mechanical alloying method at low temperature. The effect of milling time and annealing process on structural and magnetic properties of ferromagnetic alloy samples were studied by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and vibration sample magnetometer methods, respectively. Structural characteristics such as crystallite size, phase percentage, and lattice parameter determined using the Rietveld method. The values of these parameters were obtained 362.9 nm, 5.699 Å and 98.7%, respectively for annealed sample. Magnetization studies show that the Co2MnSi phase is formed at 15 h of milling and is optimized after 20 h of milling. VSM results showed that saturation magnetization (M s ) of milled samples reduces from 112 to 75 (emu/g) with increasing milling time and then increased gradually to 95 emu/g. The effect of post-annealing on the structural and magnetic properties of milled samples was also investigated. The saturation magnetization of annealed sample (120 emu/g) is higher than the optimum milled sample (95 emu/g) due to increasing preferential ordered L2 1 structure.

Electron dominated thermoelectric response in MNiSn (M: Ti, Zr, Hf) half-Heusler alloys

KAUST Repository

Gandi, Appala

2016-05-09

We solve the transport equations of the electrons and phonons to understand the thermoelectric behaviour of the technologically important half-Heusler alloys MNiSn (M: Ti, Zr, Hf). Doping is simulated within the rigid band approximation. We clarify the origin of the electron dominated thermoelectric response and determine the carrier concentrations with maximal figures of merit. The phonon mean free path is studied to calculate the grain size below which grain refinement methods can enforce ballistic heat conduction to enhance the figure of merit. © The Owner Societies 2016.

Electron dominated thermoelectric response in MNiSn (M: Ti, Zr, Hf) half-Heusler alloys

KAUST Repository

Gandi, Appala; Schwingenschlö gl, Udo

2016-01-01

We solve the transport equations of the electrons and phonons to understand the thermoelectric behaviour of the technologically important half-Heusler alloys MNiSn (M: Ti, Zr, Hf). Doping is simulated within the rigid band approximation. We clarify the origin of the electron dominated thermoelectric response and determine the carrier concentrations with maximal figures of merit. The phonon mean free path is studied to calculate the grain size below which grain refinement methods can enforce ballistic heat conduction to enhance the figure of merit. © The Owner Societies 2016.

Thermoelectric properties of fine-grained FeVSb half-Heusler alloys tuned to p-type by substituting vanadium with titanium

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zou, Minmin; Li, Jing-Feng; Kita, Takuji

2013-01-01

Fine-grained Ti-doped FeVSb half-Heusler alloys were synthesized by combining mechanical alloying and spark plasma sintering and their thermoelectric properties were investigated with an emphasis on the influences of Ti doping and phase purity. It was found that substituting V with Ti can change the electrical transport behavior from n-type to p-type due to one less valence electron of Ti than V, and the sample with nominal composition FeV 0.8 Ti 0.4 Sb exhibits the largest Seebeck coefficient and the maximum power factor. By optimizing the sintering temperature and applying annealing treatment, the power factor is significantly improved and the thermal conductivity is reduced simultaneously, resulting in a ZT value of 0.43 at 500 °C, which is relatively high as for p-type half-Heusler alloys containing earth-abundant elements. - Graphical abstract: Fine-grained Ti-doped FeVSb alloys were prepared by the MA-SPS method. The maximum ZT value reaches 0.43 at 500 °C, which is relatively high for p-type half-Heusler alloys. Highlights: ► Ti-doped FeVSb half-Heusler alloys were synthesized by combining MA and SPS. ► Substituting V with Ti changes the electrical behavior from n-type to p-type. ► Thermoelectric properties are improved by optimizing sintering temperature. ► Thermoelectric properties are further improved by applying annealing treatment. ► A high ZT value of 0.43 is obtained at 500 °C for p-type Ti-doped FeVSb alloys.

A first principle study of phase stability, electronic structure and magnetic properties for Co{sub 2−x}Cr{sub x}MnAl Heusler alloys

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Rached, H. [Laboratoire des Matériaux Magnétiques, Faculté des Sciences exactes, Université Djillali Liabès de Sidi Bel-Abbès, Sidi Bel-Abbès 22000 (Algeria); Rached, D., E-mail: rachdj@yahoo.fr [Laboratoire des Matériaux Magnétiques, Faculté des Sciences exactes, Université Djillali Liabès de Sidi Bel-Abbès, Sidi Bel-Abbès 22000 (Algeria); Khenata, R. [Laboratoire de Physique Quantique et de Modélisation Mathématique de la Matière, (LPQ3M), Université de Mascara, Mascara 29000 (Algeria); Abidri, B.; Rabah, M.; Benkhettou, N. [Laboratoire des Matériaux Magnétiques, Faculté des Sciences exactes, Université Djillali Liabès de Sidi Bel-Abbès, Sidi Bel-Abbès 22000 (Algeria); Omran, S. Bin [Department of Physics and Astronomy, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O.Box 2455, Riyadh 11451 (Saudi Arabia)

2015-04-01

The structural stabilities, electronic and magnetic properties of Co{sub 2−x}Cr{sub x}MnAl alloys with (x=0,1 and 2) were investigated using the full-potential linear muffin-tin orbital (FP-LMTO) method, in the framework of the density functional theory (DFT) within the generalized gradient approximation (GGA) for the exchange correlation functional. The ground state properties including lattice parameter, bulk modulus for the two considered crystal structures Hg{sub 2}CuTi-Type (X-Type) and Cu{sub 2}MnAl-Type (L2{sub 1}-Type) are calculated. The half-metallicity within ferromagnetic ground state starts to appear in CoCrMnAl and Cr2MnAl. In the objective for the proposition of the new HM-FM in the Full-Heusler alloys, our results classified CoCrMnAl as new HM-FM material with high spin polarization. - Highlights: • Based on DFT calculations, Co2-xCrxMnAl Heusler alloys have been investigated. • The magnetic phase stability was determined from the total energy calculations. • The LMTO calculations have classified CoCrMnAl as new HM-FM material with high spin polarization.

Enhancement of magnetic properties of Co{sub 2}MnSi Heusler alloy prepared by mechanical alloying method

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Rabie, Naeemeh; Gordani, Gholam Reza; Ghasemi, Ali, E-mail: ali13912001@yahoo.com

2017-07-15

Highlights: • Ferromagnetic Heusler alloys of Co{sub 2}MnSi were synthesized at low temperature. • There is an at least 30% reduction in the phase formation temperature. • Saturation magnetization of alloy was increased significantly after annealing. - Abstract: Ferromagnetic Heusler alloys of Co{sub 2}MnSi were synthesized by mechanical alloying method at low temperature. The effect of milling time and annealing process on structural and magnetic properties of ferromagnetic alloy samples were studied by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and vibration sample magnetometer methods, respectively. Structural characteristics such as crystallite size, phase percentage, and lattice parameter determined using the Rietveld method. The values of these parameters were obtained 362.9 nm, 5.699 Å and 98.7%, respectively for annealed sample. Magnetization studies show that the Co2MnSi phase is formed at 15 h of milling and is optimized after 20 h of milling. VSM results showed that saturation magnetization (M{sub s}) of milled samples reduces from 112 to 75 (emu/g) with increasing milling time and then increased gradually to 95 emu/g. The effect of post-annealing on the structural and magnetic properties of milled samples was also investigated. The saturation magnetization of annealed sample (120 emu/g) is higher than the optimum milled sample (95 emu/g) due to increasing preferential ordered L2{sub 1} structure.

Band structure of the quaternary Heusler alloys ScMnFeSn and ScFeCoAl

Science.gov (United States)

Shanthi, N.; Teja, Y. N.; Shaji, Shephine M.; Hosamani, Shashikala; Divya, H. S.

2018-04-01

In our quest for materials with specific applications, a theoretical study plays an important role in predicting the properties of compounds. Heusler alloys or compounds are the most studied in this context. More recently, a lot of quaternary Heusler compounds are investigated for potential applications in fields like Spintronics. We report here our preliminary study of the alloys ScMnFeSn and ScFeCoAl, using the ab-initio linear muffin-tin orbital method within the atomic sphere approximation (LMTO-ASA). The alloy ScMnFeSn shows perfect half-metallicity, namely, one of the spins shows a metallic behaviour and the other spin shows semi-conducting behaviour. Such materials find application in devices such as the spin-transfer torque random access memory (STT-MRAM). In addition, the alloy ScMnFeSn is found to have an integral magnetic moment of 4 µB, as predicted by the Slater-Pauling rule. The alloy ScFeCoAl does not show half-metallicity.

Hyperfine field at 111Cd nuclei in Heusler alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Styczen, B.; Walus, W.; Szytula, A.

1978-01-01

The magnitudes and signs of the hyperfine fields in the ordered ferromagnetic Heusler Alloys X 2 MnZ and XMnZ (where X is Cu, Ni, Pd while Z is In, Sn and Sb) have been investigated at liquid nitrogen and room temperatures using TDPAC method. Their signs have been found to be negative. The results have been compared with the predictions of Caroll-Blandin and Cambell-Blandin models and RKKY theory. (Auth)

Thermoelectric Properties of the XCoSb (X: Ti,Zr,Hf) Half-Heusler Alloys

KAUST Repository

Gandi, Appala; Schwingenschlö gl, Udo

2017-01-01

We investigate the thermoelectric properties of the half-Heusler alloys XCoSb (X: Ti,Zr,Hf) by solving Boltzmann transport equations and discuss them in terms of the electronic band structure. The rigid band approximation is employed to address

Pressure dependence of Curie temperature and resisitvity in complex Heusler alloys

Czech Academy of Sciences Publication Activity Database

Bose, S. K.; Kudrnovský, Josef; Drchal, Václav; Turek, I.

2011-01-01

Roč. 84, č. 17 (2011), 174422/1-174422/8 ISSN 1098-0121 R&D Projects: GA ČR GA202/09/0775 Institutional research plan: CEZ:AV0Z10100520 Keywords : Curie temperature * resistivity * Heusler alloys * hydrostatic pressure * first-principles Subject RIV: BM - Solid Matter Physics ; Magnetism Impact factor: 3.691, year: 2011

Study of the structural, electronic and magnetic properties of ScFeCrT (T=Si, Ge) Heusler alloys by first principles approach

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Rasool, Muhammad Nasir [Department of Physics, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur (Pakistan); Hussain, Altaf, E-mail: altafiub@yahoo.com [Department of Physics, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur (Pakistan); Javed, Athar, E-mail: athar.physics@pu.edu.pk [Department of Physics, University of the Punjab, Lahore 54590 (Pakistan); Khan, Muhammad Azhar [Department of Physics, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur (Pakistan)

2017-03-15

Spin polarized structural, electronic, magnetic and bonding properties of ScFeCrT (T=Si, Ge) Heusler alloys are studied by employing density functional theory. The total energy calculation (for a static lattice) shows that both alloys are structurally stable in ferromagnetic phase with compressibility C{sub ScFeCrSi}>C{sub ScFeCrGe}. The electronic and band structure analysis show that the ScFeCrT alloys exhibit half-metallic ferromagnetic (HMF) behaviour for spin ↑ channel while semiconducting behaviour in spin ↓ channel. Both alloys exhibit total magnetic moment, M{sub Total}=3.0 µ{sub B}/cell obeying the Slater Pauling rule, M{sub SPR}=(N{sub v} –18)μ{sub B}. For ScFeCrSi and ScFeCrGe alloys, the charge density and interatomic bonding character show highly covalent and polar covalent character, respectively. For both alloys, 100% spin polarization (for spin ↑ state) is expected which is an indication of their suitability for applications in spintronic devices. - Highlights: • Heusler alloys ScFeCrT (T= Si, Ge) are studied by first principles approach. • Structural, electronic, magnetic and bonding properties are reported. • Both alloys show half-metallicity and ferromagnetic behaviour. • Combination of properties shows the suitability of alloys in spintronic devices.

Ab initio study of effect of Co substitution on the magnetic properties of Ni and Pt-based Heusler alloys

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Roy, Tufan, E-mail: tufanroyburdwan@gmail.com [Theory and Simulations Lab, HRDS, Raja Ramanna Centre for Advanced Technology, Indore 452013 (India); Homi Bhabha National Institute, Training School Complex, Anushaktinagar, Mumbai 400094 (India); Chakrabarti, Aparna [Theory and Simulations Lab, HRDS, Raja Ramanna Centre for Advanced Technology, Indore 452013 (India); Homi Bhabha National Institute, Training School Complex, Anushaktinagar, Mumbai 400094 (India)

2017-04-25

Using density functional theory based calculations, we have carried out in-depth studies of effect of Co substitution on the magnetic properties of Ni and Pt-based shape memory alloys. We show the systematic variation of the total magnetic moment, as a function of Co doping. A detailed analysis of evolution of Heisenberg exchange coupling parameters as a function of Co doping has been presented here. The strength of RKKY type of exchange interaction is found to decay with the increase of Co doping. We calculate and show the trend, how the Curie temperature of the systems vary with the Co doping. - Highlights: • We discuss the effects of Co doping on magnetic properties of Ni/Pt based Heusler alloys. • Indirect RKKY interaction is maximum for shape memory alloy like systems. • We predict Pt{sub 2}MnSn as a probable ferromagnetic shape memory alloy.

Magnetocaloric effect in Heusler shape-memory alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Planes, A.; Manosa, Ll.; Moya, X.; Krenke, T.; Acet, M.; Wassermann, E.F.

2007-01-01

We present a comparative study of the magnetocaloric properties of Ni-Mn-X Heusler shape-memory alloys with X=Ga, Sn and In. In these materials, the magnetocaloric effect is a consequence of the magnetostructural coupling that enables the magnetic shape-memory properties. We show that inverse magnetocaloric effects can occur in these materials. The origin of this anomalous behavior is different in stoichiometric Ni 2 MnGa and in Ni-Mn-Sn/In. In the former case it is related to the strong uniaxial magnetic anisotropy of the martensitic phase, while in the later it is an intrinsic effect associated with an incipient antiferromagnetism

Hyperfine magnetic fields at 111Cd in Heusler alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Styczen, B.; Szytula, A.; Walus, W.

1977-01-01

The magnitudes and signs of the hyperfine magnetic field on 111 Cd nuclei at Z sites in the ordered ferromagnetic Heusler alloys X 2 MnZ and XMnZ (where X is Cu, Ni, Pd while Z is In, Sn and Sb) have been investigated at liquid nitrogen and room temperatures using TDPAC method. Their signs have been found to be negative. The results have been compared with the predictions of Caroli-Blandin and Campbell-Blandin models and RKKY theory. (author)

High thermoelectric figure of merit by resonant dopant in half-Heusler alloys

Science.gov (United States)

Chen, Long; Liu, Yamei; He, Jian; Tritt, Terry M.; Poon, S. Joseph

2017-06-01

Half-Heusler alloys have been one of the benchmark high temperature thermoelectric materials owing to their thermal stability and promising figure of merit ZT. Simonson et al. early showed that small amounts of vanadium doped in Hf0.75Zr0.25NiSn enhanced the Seebeck coefficient and correlated the change with the increased density of states near the Fermi level. We herein report a systematic study on the role of vanadium (V), niobium (Nb), and tantalum (Ta) as prospective resonant dopants in enhancing the ZT of n-type half-Heusler alloys based on Hf0.6Zr0.4NiSn0.995Sb0.005. The V doping was found to increase the Seebeck coefficient in the temperature range 300-1000 K, consistent with a resonant doping scheme. In contrast, Nb and Ta act as normal n-type dopants, as evident by the systematic decrease in electrical resistivity and Seebeck coefficient. The combination of enhanced Seebeck coefficient due to the presence of V resonant states and the reduced thermal conductivity has led to a state-of-the-art ZT of 1.3 near 850 K in n-type (Hf0.6Zr0.4)0.99V0.01NiSn0.995Sb0.005 alloys.

Probing the random distribution of half-metallic Co2Mn1-xFexSi Heusler alloys

NARCIS (Netherlands)

Wurmehl, S.; Kohlhepp, J.T.; Swagten, H.J.M.; Koopmans, B.; Wójcik, M.; Balke, B.; Blum, C.G.F.; Ksenofontov, V.; Fecher, G.H.; Felser, C.

2007-01-01

Co2Mn1-xFexSi Heusler alloys crystallize in the L21 structure. This structure type requires random distribution of Mn and Fe in case of the mixed alloys. The spin echo nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) technique probes the direct local environments of the active atoms and is thus able to resolve next

Local moments and electronic correlations in Fe-based Heusler alloys: Kα x-ray emission spectra measurements

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Svyazhin, Artem; Kurmaev, Ernst; Shreder, Elena; Shamin, Sergey; Sahle, Christoph J.

2016-01-01

Heusler alloys are a property-rich class of materials, intensively investigated today from both theoretical and real-world application points of view. In this paper, we attempt to shed light on the role of electronic correlations in the Fe_2MeAl group (where Me represents all 3d elements from Ti to Ni) of Heusler alloys. For this purpose, we have investigated the local moments of iron by means of the x-ray emission spectroscopy technique. To obtain numerical values of local moments, the Kα-FWHM method has been employed for the first time. In every compound of the group, the presence of a local moment on the Fe atom was detected. As has been revealed, the values of these moments are temperature-independent, pointing to an insufficiency of a pure itinerant approach to magnetism in these alloys. We also comprehensively compare the usage of Kβ main lines and Kα spectra as tools for the probing of local moments and point out the significant advantages of the latter. - Highlights: • Local spin moments of iron in Fe_2MeAl (Me = Ti … Ni) Heusler alloys were investigated by means of x-ray emission spectroscopy. • Independence of the local moments from temperature confirms their localized nature. • A local moment value of iron in Fe_2MeAl raises with the atomic number of element Me. • The applicability of the Kα x-ray emission line for extracting local moment values of 3d elements was established.

Synthesis, structural, magnetic and optical properties of Sr2CoSn based inverse Heusler alloy nanoparticles

Science.gov (United States)

Asvini, V.; Saravanan, G.; Kalaiezhily, R. K.; Ravichandran, K.

2018-05-01

The peculiar ternary full Heusler alloy Sr2CoSn nanoparticles are synthesized by co-precipitation method. X- ray diffraction pattern confirms the formation of XA or Xα structure of Sr2CoSn. Using Williamson-Hall plot (W-H plot), we are able to use the uniform deformation model and get low value of strain induced broadening. UV-Visible absorption spectrum shows sharp absorption peak at 210 nm and the estimated band gap energy of Sr2CoSn Heusler alloy nanoparticles is Eg = 4.6 eV (from Tauc plot). The presence of Sr2CoSn with the particle size of approximately 90 nm was observed using high resolution scanning electron microscopy. The magnetization measurements were carried out using VSM and studied M verses H hysteresis studies.

Structure and magnetoresistive properties of current-perpendicular-to-plane pseudo-spin valves using polycrystalline Co2Fe-based Heusler alloy films

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nakatani, T.M.; Du, Ye; Takahashi, Y.K.; Furubayashi, T.; Hono, K.

2013-01-01

We report current-perpendicular-to-plane giant magnetoresistance (CPP–GMR) of pseudo-spin valves (PSVs) with polycrystalline Co 2 Fe(Al 0.5 Si 0.5 ) (CFAS) and Co 2 Fe(Ga 0.5 Ge 0.5 ) (CFGG) Heusler alloy films. Strongly [0 1 1] textured polycrystalline Heusler alloy films grew on the Ta/Ru/Ag underlayer. Relatively large CPP–GMR values of ΔRA up to 4 mΩ μm 2 and ΔR/R up to 10% were obtained with 5 nm thick Heusler alloy films and Ag spacer layer by annealing CFAS PSV at 450 °C and CFGG PSV at 350 °C. Transmission electron microscopy revealed a flat and sharp interface between the [0 1 1] textured CFAS layers and the [1 1 1] textured Ag spacer layer. Annealing above an optimal temperature for each PSV led to reductions in MR values as a result of the thickening of the spacer layer induced by the Ag diffusion from the outer Ag layers

Ab initio studies on electronic and magnetic properties of X2PtGa (X=Cr, Mn, Fe, Co) Heusler alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Roy, Tufan; Chakrabarti, Aparna

2017-01-01

Using first-principles calculations based on density functional theory, we probe the electronic and magnetic properties of X 2 PtGa (X being Cr, Mn, Fe, Co) Heusler alloys. Our calculations predict that all these systems possess inverse Heusler alloy structure in the respective ground states. Application of tetragonal distortion leads to lowering of energy with respect to their cubic phase. The equilibrium volumes of both the phases are nearly the same. These indicate that the materials studied here are prone to undergo martensite transition, as has been recently shown theoretically for Mn 2 PtGa in the literature. Ground state with a tetragonal symmetry is corroborated by the observation of soft tetragonal shear constants in the cubic phase. By comparing the energies of various types of magnetic configurations we predict that Cr 2 PtGa and Mn 2 PtGa possess ferrimagnetic configuration whereas Fe 2 PtGa and Co 2 PtGa possess ferromagnetic configuration in their respective ground states. - Highlights: • We predict stable martensitic phase of X 2 PtGa (X=Cr, Mn, Fe, Co). • Co 2 PtGa possesses least inherent brittleness among all the materials. • Martensite transitions are possible for the investigated materials. • A tetragonal ground state with high spin polarization is predicted for Co 2 PtGa.

The effect of disorder on electronic and magnetic properties of quaternary Heusler alloy CoFeMnSi with LiMgPbSb-type structure

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Feng, Yu; Chen, Hong; Yuan, Hongkuan; Zhou, Ying; Chen, Xiaorui

2015-01-01

Thin films based on Heusler alloy often lost their theoretical predicted ultra-high spin polarization owing to the appearance of disorder. Using the first-principles calculations within density functional theory (DFT), we investigate the effect of disorder including antisite and swap on electronic and magnetic properties of quaternary Heusler alloy CoFeMnSi with LiMgPbSb-type structure. Twelve kinds of antisites and six kinds of swap disorders are proposed and studied comprehensively. In our calculations, Co(Fe)-, Mn(Fe)-, Si(Mn)-antisite and Co–Fe swap disorders are most favorable due to their lowest formation energies. Moreover, the positive binding energies of Co–Fe, Co–Si, Fe–Si and Mn–Si swap disorders with respect to their corresponding antisite disorders indicate that these complex swap disorders are more stable compared with their corresponding isolated antisite disorders. The investigations on density of states (DOS) show that the spin down energy gap of disordered structures suffers contraction and their DOS entirely move towards lower zone. Besides, the 100% spin polarization is maintained in all structures with antisite and swap disorders except for those with Co(Mn)-, Co(Si)-antisite and Co–Mn, Co–Si swap disorders. Therefore, the half-metallicity of quaternary Heusler alloy CoFeMnSi is quite robust against interfering effects such as Si(Mn), Co(Fe) and Co–Fe disorders most possibly formed in the growth. - Highlights: • CoFeMnSi with LiMgPbSb-type structure is found to be a half-metallic ferromagnet. • Si(Mn), Co(Fe), Mn(Fe) antisites and Co–Fe swap disorders are most likely to form. • The half-metallicity of CoFeMnSi is robust against the most possible disorders. • The magnetic moments of the most possible disorders follow the Pauli-Slater rule

Multifunctional properties related to magnetostructural transitions in ternary and quaternary Heusler alloys

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Dubenko, Igor, E-mail: igor_doubenko@yahoo.com [Department of Physics, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL 62901 (United States); Quetz, Abdiel; Pandey, Sudip; Aryal, Anil; Eubank, Michael [Department of Physics, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL 62901 (United States); Rodionov, Igor; Prudnikov, Valerii; Granovsky, Alexander [Faculty of Physics, Moscow State University, Vorob' evy Gory, 11999I Moscow (Russian Federation); Lahderanta, Erkki [Lappeenranta University of Technology, 53851 (Finland); Samanta, Tapas; Saleheen, Ahmad; Stadler, Shane [Department of Physics & Astronomy, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803 (United States); Ali, Naushad [Department of Physics, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL 62901 (United States)

2015-06-01

In this report, the results of a study on the effects of compositional variations induced by the small changes in concentrations of the parent components and/or by the substitution of Ni, Mn, or In by an extra element Z, on the phase transitions, and phenomena related to the magnetostructural transitions in off-stoichiometric Ni–Mn–In based Heusler alloys are summarized. The crystal structures, phase transitions temperatures, and magnetic and magnetocaloric properties were analyzed for representative samples of the following systems (all near 15 at% indium concentration): Ni–Mn–In, Ni–Mn–In–Si, Ni–Mn–In–B, Ni–Mn–In–Cu, Ni–Mn–In–Cu–B, Ni–Mn–In–Fe, Ni–Mn–In–Ag, and Ni–Mn–In–Al. - Highlights: • The experimental results on phase transitions temperatures, adiabatic temperature changes, magnetoresistance and heat flow for the ternary and quaternary Heusler alloys based on Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 35}In{sub 15} demonstrate high sensitivity of magnetic properties to the small changes in concentrations of the parent components and/or by the substitution of Ni, Mn, or In by an additional element Z. • The phenomena related to the magnetostructural transitions strongly depend on the weighted average radius of constituent ions.

Structural and magnetic characterization of Fe2CrSi Heusler alloy nanoparticles as spin injectors and spin based sensors

Science.gov (United States)

Saravanan, G.; Asvini, V.; Kalaiezhily, R. K.; Parveen, I. Mubeena; Ravichandran, K.

2018-05-01

Half-metallic ferromagnetic [HMF] nanoparticles are of considerable interest in spintronics applications due to their potential use as a highly spin polarized current source. HMF exhibits a semiconductor in one spin band at the Fermi level Ef and at the other spin band they poses strong metallic nature which shows 100 % spin polarization at Ef. Fe based full Heusler alloys are primary interest due to high Curie temperature. Fe2CrSi Heusler alloys are synthesized using metallic powders of Fe, Cr and Si by mechanical alloying method. X-Ray diffractions studies were performed to analyze the structural details of Fe2CrSi nanoparticles with High resolution scanning electron microscope (HRSEM) studies for the morphological details of nanoparticles and magnetic properties were studied using Vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). XRD Data analysis conforms the Heusler alloy phase showing the existence of L21 structure. Magnetic properties are measured for synthesized samples exhibiting a soft magnetic property possessing low coercivity (HC = 60.5 Oe) and saturation magnetic moment of Fe2CrSi is 3.16 µB, which is significantly higher than the ideal value of 2 µB from the Slater-Pauling rule due to room temperature measurement. The change in magnetic properties are half-metallic nature of Fe2CrSi is due to the shift of the Fermi level with respect to the gap were can be used as spin sensors and spin injectors in magnetic random access memories and other spin dependent devices.

Ab initio studies on electronic and magnetic properties of X{sub 2}PtGa (X=Cr, Mn, Fe, Co) Heusler alloys

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Roy, Tufan, E-mail: aparnachakrabarti@gmail.com [Homi Bhaba National Institute, Training School Complex, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai 400094 (India); Chakrabarti, Aparna [Homi Bhaba National Institute, Training School Complex, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai 400094 (India); Indus Synchrotrons Utilization Division, Raja Ramanna Centre for Advanced Technology, Indore 452013 (India)

2017-02-01

Using first-principles calculations based on density functional theory, we probe the electronic and magnetic properties of X{sub 2}PtGa (X being Cr, Mn, Fe, Co) Heusler alloys. Our calculations predict that all these systems possess inverse Heusler alloy structure in the respective ground states. Application of tetragonal distortion leads to lowering of energy with respect to their cubic phase. The equilibrium volumes of both the phases are nearly the same. These indicate that the materials studied here are prone to undergo martensite transition, as has been recently shown theoretically for Mn{sub 2}PtGa in the literature. Ground state with a tetragonal symmetry is corroborated by the observation of soft tetragonal shear constants in the cubic phase. By comparing the energies of various types of magnetic configurations we predict that Cr{sub 2}PtGa and Mn{sub 2}PtGa possess ferrimagnetic configuration whereas Fe{sub 2}PtGa and Co{sub 2}PtGa possess ferromagnetic configuration in their respective ground states. - Highlights: • We predict stable martensitic phase of X{sub 2}PtGa (X=Cr, Mn, Fe, Co). • Co{sub 2}PtGa possesses least inherent brittleness among all the materials. • Martensite transitions are possible for the investigated materials. • A tetragonal ground state with high spin polarization is predicted for Co{sub 2}PtGa.

Spin disordered resistivity of the Heusler Ni.sub.2./sub.MnGa-based alloys

Czech Academy of Sciences Publication Activity Database

Kamarád, Jiří; Kaštil, Jiří; Albertini, F.; Fabbrici, S.; Arnold, Zdeněk

2017-01-01

Roč. 131, č. 4 (2017), s. 1072-1074 ISSN 0587-4246 R&D Projects: GA ČR GAP204/12/0692 Institutional support: RVO:68378271 Keywords : spin disordered resistivity * magnetoresistance * Heusler alloys * Ni 2 MnGa Subject RIV: BM - Solid Matter Physics ; Magnetism OBOR OECD: Condensed matter physics (including formerly solid state physics, supercond.) Impact factor: 0.469, year: 2016

Effect of site disorder on the electronic properties of Fe2VAl Heusler alloy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Venkatesh, Ch.; Srinivas, V.; Rao, V.V.; Srivastava, S.K.; Babu, P. Sudheer

2013-01-01

Highlights: •The role of site-disorder on physical properties of Fe 2 VAl has been investigated through experiments as well as DFT calculations. •Metal to semiconductor-like behaviour in electrical transport of anti-site disordered Fe 2 VAl was consistently explained. •Both itinerant and localized magnetic behaviours of anti-site disordered Fe 2 VAl are discussed. •Justification of metallic-like transition in site-disordered Fe 2 VAl is given. -- Abstract: Ab initio calculations on ordered L2 1 structure of Fe 2 VAl alloy have been carried out by introducing B2, DO 3 , A2′ and XY–XZ type disorders in order to understand the role of anti-site disorder on magnetic and transport properties. These studies show an enhancement of individual spin moments of anti-site Fe atoms in DO 3 , A2′ and XY–XZ type anti-site disorder, making the Fe 2 VAl alloy magnetically active. These calculations also show that hybridization due to covalent distribution of valance states among the atoms is important in Fe 2 VAl, defining its unusual physical properties. From the density of states spectrum obtained near the Fermi level, we have noticed formation of intermediate defect-like states that couple the edges of the pseudo gap on both sides of the Fermi level, driving the material from semi-metallic to metallic type in electrical transport. We also present experimental results on structural, magnetic and electrical properties of Fe 2 VAl Heusler alloy. A comparison of present experimental data with calculations shows an existence of DO 3 type anti-site disorder due to the Al-deficiency in Fe 2 VAl alloy which causes deviations in theoretical results on the magnetic and transport behaviour of pure Fe 2 VAl. The temperature dependence of electrical transport and magnetic data analysed on the basis of impurity band model which provides convincing evidence for itinerant character of this alloy system with an anti-site disorder

Structure and magnetic properties of Co{sub 2}(Cr{sub 1−x}Fe{sub x})Al, (0 ≤ x ≤ 1) Heusler alloys prepared by mechanical alloying

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Srivastava, Yogesh, E-mail: 123209001_yogesh@manit.ac.in [Department of Materials Science & Metallurgical Engineering, Ceramic & Powder Metallurgy Laboratory, Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462003 (India); Vajpai, Sanjay Kumar, E-mail: vajpaisk@gmail.com [Department of Materials Science & Metallurgical Engineering, Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462003 (India); Srivastava, Sanjay, E-mail: s.srivastava.msme@gmail.com [Department of Materials Science & Metallurgical Engineering, Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462003 (India)

2017-07-01

Highlights: • A series of nanocrystalline Co{sub 2}(Cr{sub 1−x}Fe{sub x})Al Heusler alloy by powder metallurgy. • Effect of substitution of Fe for Cr on the microstructure and magnetic properties. • Increasing amounts of B2 type disordered structure with increasing Fe content. • Enhanced Ms, Mr, Hc, and Tc with increasing Fe content. • Relative magnetic anisotropy decreased with increasing Fe content. - Abstract: In the present study, a series of nanocrystalline Co{sub 2}(Cr{sub 1−x}Fe{sub x})Al Heusler alloy powders were successfully prepared by high energy ball milling and the effect of substitution of Fe for Cr on the microstructure and magnetic properties was investigated in detail. The Co{sub 2}CrAl alloy powder consisted of only A2 type disordered structure whereas the substitution of Cr by Fe led to the appearance of increasing amounts of B2 type disordered structure along with A2 type structure. All the Co{sub 2}(Cr{sub 1−x}Fe{sub x})Al Heusler alloy powders demonstrated high spontaneous magnetization together with a very small hysteresis losses. The saturation magnetization, remanence, coercivity, and Curie temperature increased with increasing Fe content. The increasing magnetization with increasing Fe content was attributed to the replacement of antiferromagnetic Cr by strongly ferromagnetic Fe and an increasing amounts of relatively more ordered, atomically as well as ferromagnetically, B2 structure as compared to that of A2 phase. The increment in remanence and coercivity with increasing Fe content were associated with the variation in microstructural characteristics, such as grain size, lattice defects, and the presence of small amounts of magnetic/nonmagnetic secondary phases. The increment in Curie temperature with increasing Fe content was attributed to the enhancement of d-d exchange interaction due to the possible occupancy of vacant sites by Fe atoms. All the Heusler alloys indicated extremely low magnetic anisotropy and the

Electron spin resonance probed competing states in NiMnInSi Heusler alloy

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Chen, Y.S. [Center for Condensed Matter Sciences, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan (China); Lin, J.G., E-mail: jglin@ntu.edu.tw [Center for Condensed Matter Sciences, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan (China); Titov, I.S.; Granovsky, A.B. [Faculty of Physics, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Vorob' evy Gory, 11999l Moscow (Russian Federation)

2016-06-01

Shape memory Heusler alloy Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 35}In{sub 12}Si{sub 3} is investigated with electron spin resonance (ESR) technique in a temperature range of 200–300 K. ESR is a dynamic probe allowing us to separate the responses from various magnetic phases, thus to study the complex phase transitions. The sample shows three transition temperatures: T{sub c}{sup A} (271 K), T{sub M} (247 K) and T{sub c}{sup M} (212 K), where T{sub c}{sup A} is the Curie temperature of austenitic phase, T{sub M} and T{sub c}{sup M} are the temperatures of magnetostructural martensitic transition and the Curie temperature of martensitic phase, respectively. Furthermore, ESR data reveals the coexistence of two magnetic modes in whole temperature range of 200–300 K. Particularly in martensitic phase, two magnetic modes are attributed to two different kinds of lattice deformation, the slip and twinning deformations. - Highlights: • Electron spin resonance study on magnetocaloric Heusler alloy within 200–300 K. • Magnetic phase separation below and above the structural transition temperature. • Phase competing is in association with different types of lattice distortions. • Electron spin resonance results are complementary to the magnetization data.

Thermoelectric Properties of the XCoSb (X: Ti,Zr,Hf) Half-Heusler Alloys

KAUST Repository

Gandi, Appala

2017-09-18

We investigate the thermoelectric properties of the half-Heusler alloys XCoSb (X: Ti,Zr,Hf) by solving Boltzmann transport equations and discuss them in terms of the electronic band structure. The rigid band approximation is employed to address the effects of doping. While many half-Heuser alloys show excellent thermoelectric performance, the materials under study are special by supporting both n- and p-doping. We identify the reasons for this balanced thermoelectric transport and explain why experimentally p-doping is superior to n-doping. We also determine the spectrum of phonon mean free paths to guide grain refinement methods to enhance the thermoelectric figure of merit.

DFT investigations on mechanical stability, electronic structure and magnetism in Co2TaZ (Z = Al, Ga, In) heusler alloys

Science.gov (United States)

Khandy, Shakeel Ahmad; Gupta, Dinesh C.

2017-12-01

Ferromagnetic Heusler compounds have vast and imminent applications for novel devices, smart materials thanks to density functional theory (DFT) based simulations, which have scored out a new approach to study these materials. We forecast the structural stability of Co2TaZ alloys on the basis of total energy calculations and mechanical stability criteria. The elastic constants, robust spin-polarized ferromagnetism and electron densities in these half-metallic alloys are also discussed. The observed structural aspects calculated to predict the stability and equilibrium lattice parameters agree well with the experimental results. The elastic parameters like elastic constants, bulk, Young’s and shear moduli, poison’s and Pugh ratios, melting temperatures, etc have been put together to establish their mechanical properties. The elaborated electronic band structures along with indirect band gaps and spin polarization favour the application of these materials in spintronics and memory device technology.

Effect of graphene tunnel barrier on Schottky barrier height of Heusler alloy Co2MnSi/graphene/n-Ge junction

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Li Gui-fang; Hu Jing; Lv Hui; Cui Zhijun; Hou Xiaowei; Liu Shibin; Du Yongqian

2016-01-01

We demonstrate that the insertion of a graphene tunnel barrier between Heusler alloy Co 2 MnSi and the germanium (Ge) channel modulates the Schottky barrier height and the resistance–area product of the spin diode. We confirm that the Fermi level is depinned and a reduction in the electron Schottky barrier height (SBH) occurs following the insertion of the graphene layer between Co 2 MnSi and Ge. The electron SBH is modulated in the 0.34 eV–0.61 eV range. Furthermore, the transport mechanism changes from rectifying to symmetric tunneling following the insertion. This behavior provides a pathway for highly efficient spin injection from a Heusler alloy into a Ge channel with high electron and hole mobility. (paper)

Surface thermodynamic stability, electronic and magnetic properties in various (001) surfaces of Zr2CoSn Heusler alloy

Science.gov (United States)

Yang, Yan; Feng, Zhong-Ying; Zhang, Jian-Min

2018-05-01

The spin-polarized first-principles are used to study the surface thermodynamic stability, electronic and magnetic properties in various (001) surfaces of Zr2CoSn Heusler alloy, and the bulk Zr2CoSn Heusler alloy are also discussed to make comparison. The conduction band minimum (CBM) of half-metallic (HM) bulk Zr2CoSn alloy is contributed by ZrA, ZrB and Co atoms, while the valence band maximum (VBM) is contributed by ZrB and Co atoms. The SnSn termination is the most stable surface with the highest spin polarizations P = 77.1% among the CoCo, ZrCo, ZrZr, ZrSn and SnSn terminations of the Zr2CoSn (001) surface. In the SnSn termination of the Zr2CoSn (001) surface, the atomic partial density of states (APDOS) of atoms in the surface, subsurface and third layers are much influenced by the surface effect and the total magnetic moment (TMM) is mainly contributed by the atomic magnetic moments of atoms in fourth to ninth layers.

High Thermoelectric Figure of Merit by Resonant Dopant in Half-Heusler Alloys

OpenAIRE

Chen, Long; Liu, Yamei; He, Jian; Tritt, Terry M.; Poon, S. Joseph

2017-01-01

Half-Heusler alloys have been one of the benchmark high temperature thermoelectric materials owing to their thermal stability and promising figure of merit ZT. Simonson et al. early showed that small amounts of vanadium doped in Hf0.75Zr0.25NiSn enhanced the Seebeck coefficient and correlated the change with the increased density of states near the Fermi level. We herein report a systematic study on the role of vanadium (V), niobium (Nb), and tantalum (Ta) as prospective resonant dopants in e...

Phenomenological analysis of thermal hysteresis in Ni-Mn-Ga Heusler alloys

Science.gov (United States)

Zagrebin, M. A.; Sokolovskiy, V. V.; Buchelnikov, V. D.

2018-05-01

The manipulation of thermal hysteresis in Ni-Mn-Ga Heusler alloys with coupled magnetostructural phase transition is studied theoretically using the Landau theory, including magnetic, elastic and crystal lattice modulation order parameters as well as an external magnetic field. It is shown that for the assigned combination of phenomenological parameters, in the phase diagrams, the Austenite-Martensite first-order phase transition has a finite (critical) point in which the thermal hysteresis is disappeared. Moreover, this point depends on the relation between modulation and elastic constants as well as on the magnetic field. Obtained results have been compared with other theoretical end experimental data.

The pressure dependence of structural, electronic, mechanical, vibrational, and thermodynamic properties of palladium-based Heusler alloys

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Coban, Cansu [Balikesir Univ. (Turkey). Dept. of Physics

2017-07-01

The pressure dependent behaviour of the structural, electronic, mechanical, vibrational, and thermodynamic properties of Pd{sub 2}TiX (X=Ga, In) Heusler alloys was investigated by ab initio calculations. The lattice constant, the bulk modulus and its first pressure derivative, the electronic band structure and the density of states (DOS), mechanical properties such as elastic constants, anisotropy factor, Young's modulus, etc., the phonon dispersion curves and phonon DOS, entropy, heat capacity, and free energy were obtained under pressure. It was determined that the calculated lattice parameters are in good agreement with the literature, the elastic constants obey the stability criterion, and the phonon dispersion curves have no negative frequency which shows that the compounds are stable. The band structures at 0, 50, and 70 GPa showed valence instability at the L point which explains the superconductivity in Pd{sub 2}TiX (X=Ga, In).

Electrical resistivity at high temperatures of Heusler alloys of the Cu2MnAl sub(1-x) Sn sub (x)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Grandi, T.A.

1978-01-01

The structural fase L2 1 of the Heusler alloys Cu 2 MnAl sub (1-x) Sn sub(x), with x varying between 0 and 1, was studied. X-ray diffraction, metallography and diferential termoanalysis techniques were employed. For the alloys with x = 0; 0,05; 0,10 and 0,15 the electrical resistivity measurements were performed in the temperature range 300 K [pt

Special Heusler compounds for spintronic applications

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Balke, B.

2007-07-01

This work emphasizes the potential of Heusler compounds in a wide range of spintronic applications. Using electronic structure calculations it is possible to design compounds for specific applications. Examples for GMR and TMR applications, for spin injection into semiconductors, and for spin torque transfer applications will be shown. After a detailed introduction about spintronics and related materials chapter 5 reports about the investigation of new half-metallic compounds where the Fermi energy is tuned in the middle of the gap to result in more stable compounds for GMR and TMR applications. The bulk properties of the quaternary Heusler alloy Co{sub 2}Mn{sub 1-x}Fe{sub x}Si with the Fe concentration ranging from x=0 to 1 are reported and the results suggest that the best candidate for applications may be found at an iron concentration of about 50%. Due to the effect that in the Co{sub 2}Mn{sub 1-x}Fe{sub x}Si series the transition metal carrying the localized moment is exchanged and this might lead to unexpected effects on the magnetic properties if the samples are not completely homogeneous chapter 6 reports about the optimization of the Heusler compounds for GMR and TMR applications. The structural and magnetic properties of the quaternary Heusler alloy Co{sub 2}FeAl{sub 1-x}Si{sub x} with varying Si concentration are reported. From the combination of experimental (better order for high Si content) and theoretical findings (robust gap at x=0.5) it is concluded that a compound with an intermediate Si concentration close to x=0.5-0.7 would be best suited for spintronic applications, especially for GMR and TMR applications. In chapter 7 the detailed investigation of compounds for spin injection into semiconductors is reported. It is shown that the diluted magnetic semiconductors based on CoTiSb with a very low lattice mismatch among each other are interesting materials for spintronics applications like Spin-LEDs or other spin injection devices. Chapter 8 refers

The effect of pressure on the structural, electronic, magnetic, and thermodynamic properties of the Mn{sub 2}RuGe inverse Heusler alloy

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Song, Ting, E-mail: songting_lzjtu@163.com [State Key Laboratory of Advanced Processing and Recycling of Non-ferrous Metals, Lanzhou University of Technology, Lanzhou 730050 (China); College of Material Science and Engineering, Lanzhou University of Technology, Lanzhou 730050 (China); School of Mathematics and Physics, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, Lanzhou 730070 (China); Sun, Xiao-Wei [School of Mathematics and Physics, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, Lanzhou 730070 (China); Tian, Jun-Hong [School of Mathematics and Physics, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, Lanzhou 730070 (China); Institute of Atomic and Molecular Physics, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065 (China); Wei, Xiao-Ping; Wan, Gui-Xin [School of Mathematics and Physics, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, Lanzhou 730070 (China); Ma, Qin, E-mail: maqin_lut@yeah.net [State Key Laboratory of Advanced Processing and Recycling of Non-ferrous Metals, Lanzhou University of Technology, Lanzhou 730050 (China); College of Material Science and Engineering, Lanzhou University of Technology, Lanzhou 730050 (China)

2017-04-15

In the frame of density functional theory, first-principles calculations based on generalized gradient approximation and quasi-harmonic Debye approximation model in which the phononic effects are taken into account have been carried out to investigate the structural, electronic, magnetic, and thermodynamic properties of full-Heusler alloy Mn{sub 2}RuGe in CuHg{sub 2}Ti-type structure in the pressure range of 0–50 GPa. Present calculations predict that Mn{sub 2}RuGe is a ferrimagnet with an optimized lattice parameter of 5.854 Å. The calculated total magnetic moment of 2.01 μ{sub B} per formula unit is very close to integer value and agree well with the Slater-Pauling rule, where the partial spin moments of Mn (A) and Mn (B) which mainly contribute to the total magnetic moment are 2.66 μ{sub B} and −0.90 μ{sub B}, respectively. In the study of the energy band structures and density of states, Mn{sub 2}RuGe exhibits half-metallicity with an indirect gap of 0.235 eV in the spin-down channels, and the shifting of bands towards higher energies in spin-down channel under high pressure. Meanwhile, the high-pressure thermodynamic properties of Mn{sub 2}RuGe, such as the pressure-volume-temperature relationship, bulk modulus, thermal expansivity, heat capacity, Debye temperature, and Grüneisen parameter are evaluated systematically in the temperature range of 0–900 K. This set of data is considered as the useful information to understand the high-pressure and high-temperature properties for the Mn{sub 2}RuZ-type Heusler alloy family.

Low-temperature electron properties of Heusler alloys Fe2VAl and Fe2CrAl: Effect of annealing

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Podgornykh, S. M.; Svyazhin, A. D.; Shreder, E. I.; Marchenkov, V. V.; Dyakina, V. P.

2007-01-01

We present the results of measurements of low-temperature heat capacity, as well as electrical and magnetic properties of Heusler alloys Fe 2 VAl and Fe 2 CrAl prepared in different ways using various heat treatment regimes. The density of states at the Fermi level is estimated. A contribution of ferromagnetic clusters in the low-temperature heat capacity of the Fe 2 VAl alloy is detected. The change in the number and volume of clusters as a result of annealing of an alloy affects the behavior of their low-temperature heat capacity, resistivity, and magnetic properties

Ab initio and Monte Carlo investigations of structural, electronic and magnetic properties of new ferromagnetic Heusler alloys with high Curie temperatures

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Dannenberg, Antje

2011-08-30

The mechanism which causes many of the unusual thermomechanical properties of martensitic alloys, as for example, superelasticity and the shape-memory effect, is the martensitic transformation. The prototype ferromagnetic shape memory alloy (FSMA) is Ni{sub 2}MnGa. But a technological breakthrough is missing due to its poor ductility and low operation temperatures. The goal of this thesis is the proposal of new FSMA appropriate for future technological applications. I focus on X{sub 2}YZ Heusler alloys which are mainly based on Mn, Fe, Co, and Ni for the X and Y sites and Z=Ga or Zn. The big challenge of this work is to find material classes which combine the unique magnetomechanical properties of FSMA which are large recoverable magnetostrictive strains, high magnetocrystalline anisotropy energy, and highly mobile twin boundaries with transformation temperatures clearly above room temperature and a reduced brittleness. Such a study, providing material classes which from a theoretical point of view are promising candidates for future FSMA, will help the experimental physicists to select interesting subgroups in the vast number of possible chemical compositions of X{sub 2}YZ Heusler alloys. I have systematically varied the composition in the new Heusler alloys in order to find trends indicating generic tendencies of the material properties, for instance, as a function of the valence electron concentration e/a. A main feature of this thesis is the attempt to find the origin of the competing structural ordering tendencies between conventional X{sub 2}YZ and inverse (XY)XZ Heusler structures which are observed for all systems investigated. In the first part of this work the accuracy and predictive power of ab initio and Monte Carlo simulations is demonstrated by reproducing the experimental phase diagram of Ni-Mn-(Ga,In,Sn,Sb). The linear increasing and decreasing slopes of T{sub M} and T{sub C} can be reproduced by total and free energy calculations and the analysis

Magnetic hyperfine fields on 181Ta at the Nb and V sites in Heusler alloys CO2YAL (Y=NB,V)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pendl Junior, W.

1990-01-01

Magnetic hyperfine fields (MHF) acting on sup(181)Ta at the Nb and V sites have been determined in the Heusler alloys Co sub(2) NbA1 and Co sub(2) VA1 by the time differential perturbed angular correlation (TDPAC) technique utilizing the well known 133-482 Kev gamma cascade in sup(181)Ta. The measurement were carried out using an automatic spectrometer consisting of three NaI(T1) detectors and a fast-slow coincidence system. The measurements were performed at 77 K with and without an externally applied magnetic field ( ∼ 4.5 KGauss) to determine the sign as well as the magnitude of the hyperfine fields in both alloys. For the alloy Co sub(2) NbA1 a unique field of -138(4) KOe was observed whereas in the case of Co sub(2)VA1 two distinct magnetic sites were observed. The present result show that approximately 24% of the sup(181)Ta atoms in this alloy probe a field of -116(4) KOe while the other ∼ 76% of the atoms feel -83(3) KOe. Present data along with the existing results on similar alloys Co sub(2)T1,Hf,Zr (Al,Ga,Sn) are discussed and compared with the magnetic hyperfine field systematics in Heusler alloys. (author)

Ab initio studies of Co{sub 2}FeAl{sub 1−x}Si{sub x} Heusler alloys

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Szwacki, N. Gonzalez, E-mail: gonz@fuw.edu.pl; Majewski, Jacek A., E-mail: jam@fuw.edu.pl

2016-07-01

We present results of extensive theoretical studies of Co{sub 2}FeAl{sub 1−x}Si{sub x} Heusler alloys, which have been performed in the framework of density functional theory employing the all-electron full-potential linearized augmented plane-wave scheme. It is shown that the Si-rich alloys are more resistive to structural disorder and as a consequence Si stabilizes the L2{sub 1} structure. Si alloying changes position of the Fermi level, pushing it into the gap of the minority spin-band. It is also shown that the hyperfine field on Co nuclei increases with the Si concentration, and this increase originates mostly from the changes in the electronic density of the valence electrons. - Highlights: • GGA+U calculations: μ and E{sub g} dependence on the value of U for Co{sub 2}FeAl and Co{sub 2}FeSi. • Behavior of magnetic hyperfine fields on the Co site of Co{sub 2}FeAl{sub 1−x}Si{sub x} versus x. • DFT proof of suppression of formation of antisites defects with x in Co{sub 2}FeAl{sub 1−x}Si{sub x}.

Spin wave propagation detected over 100 μm in half-metallic Heusler alloy Co2MnSi

Science.gov (United States)

Stückler, Tobias; Liu, Chuanpu; Yu, Haiming; Heimbach, Florian; Chen, Jilei; Hu, Junfeng; Tu, Sa; Alam, Md. Shah; Zhang, Jianyu; Zhang, Youguang; Farrell, Ian L.; Emeny, Chrissy; Granville, Simon; Liao, Zhi-Min; Yu, Dapeng; Zhao, Weisheng

2018-03-01

The field of magnon spintronics offers a charge current free way of information transportation by using spin waves (SWs). Compared to forward volume spin waves for example, Damon-Eshbach (DE) SWs need a relatively weak external magnetic field which is suitable for small spintronic devices. In this work we study DE SWs in Co2MnSi, a half-metallic Heusler alloy with significant potential for magnonics. Thin films have been produced by pulsed laser deposition. Integrated coplanar waveguide (CPW) antennas with different distances between emitter and detection antenna have been prepared on a Co2MnSi film. We used a vector network analyzer to measure spin wave reflection and transmission. We observe spin wave propagation up to 100 μm, a new record for half-metallic Heusler thin films.

Strong magneto-volume effects and hysteresis reduction in the In-doped (NiCo).sub.2./sub.MnGa Heusler alloys

Czech Academy of Sciences Publication Activity Database

Kamarád, Jiří; Fabbrici, S.; Kaštil, Jiří; Míšek, Martin; Cabassi, R.; Cugini, F.; Albertini, F.; Arnold, Zdeněk

2016-01-01

Roč. 685, Nov (2016), s. 142-146 ISSN 0925-8388 R&D Projects: GA ČR GA15-03777S Institutional support: RVO:68378271 Keywords : Heusler alloys * martensitic transformation * magnetic properties * high pressure Subject RIV: BM - Solid Matter Physics ; Magnetism Impact factor: 3.133, year: 2016

Effect of graphene tunnel barrier on Schottky barrier height of Heusler alloy Co2MnSi/graphene/n-Ge junction

Science.gov (United States)

Gui-fang, Li; Jing, Hu; Hui, Lv; Zhijun, Cui; Xiaowei, Hou; Shibin, Liu; Yongqian, Du

2016-02-01

We demonstrate that the insertion of a graphene tunnel barrier between Heusler alloy Co2MnSi and the germanium (Ge) channel modulates the Schottky barrier height and the resistance-area product of the spin diode. We confirm that the Fermi level is depinned and a reduction in the electron Schottky barrier height (SBH) occurs following the insertion of the graphene layer between Co2MnSi and Ge. The electron SBH is modulated in the 0.34 eV-0.61 eV range. Furthermore, the transport mechanism changes from rectifying to symmetric tunneling following the insertion. This behavior provides a pathway for highly efficient spin injection from a Heusler alloy into a Ge channel with high electron and hole mobility. Project supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 61504107) and the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities, China (Grant Nos. 3102014JCQ01059 and 3102015ZY043).

Designing magnetic compensated states in tetragonal Mn{sub 3}Ge-based Heusler alloys

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

You, Yurong; Xu, Guizhou, E-mail: gzxu@njust.edu.cn; Hu, Fang; Gong, Yuanyuan; Liu, Er; Peng, Guo; Xu, Feng, E-mail: xufeng@njust.edu.cn

2017-05-01

Magnetic compensated materials attracted much interests due to the observed large exchange bias and large coercivity, and also their potential applications in the antiferromagnetic spintronics with merit of no stray field. In this work, by using ab-initio studies, we designed several Ni (Pd, Pt) doped Mn{sub 3}Ge-based D0{sub 22}-type tetragonal Heusler alloys with fully compensated states. Theoretically, we find the total moment change is asymmetric across the compensation point (at ~x=0.3) in Mn{sub 3-x}Y{sub x}Ge (Y=Ni, Pd, Pt). In addition, an uncommon discontinuous jump is observed across the critical zero-moment point, indicating that some non-trivial properties may emerge at this point. Further electronic analyses of these compensated alloys reveal high spin polarizations at the Fermi level, which is advantageous for spin transfer torque applications. - Highlights: • Several new fully compensated magnetic states are identified in Mn{sub 3}Ge-based tetragonal alloys. • The magnetic moment changes are asymmetric upon Ni, Pd and Pt substitution. • Discontinuous jumps exist across the compensated points. • The three compensated alloys possess large spin polarizations.

Intermartensitic transitions in Ni-Mn-Fe-Cu-Ga Heusler alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Khan, Mahmud; Gautam, Bhoj; Pathak, Arjun; Dubenko, Igor; Stadler, Shane; Ali, Naushad

2008-01-01

A series of Fe doped Ni 2 Mn 0.75-x Fe x Cu 0.25 Ga Heusler alloys have been investigated by means of x-ray diffraction, magnetizations, thermal expansion, and electrical resistivity measurements. In Ni 2 Mn 0.75 Cu 0.25 Ga, martensitic and ferromagnetic transitions occur at the same temperature. Partial substitution of Mn by Fe results in a decrease of the martensitic transition temperature, T M , and an increase of the ferromagnetic transition temperature, T C , resulting in separation of the two transitions. In addition to the martensitic transition, complete thermoelastic intermartensitic transformations have been observed in the Fe doped Ni 2 Mn 0.75-x Fe x Cu 0.25 Ga samples with x>0.04. An unusual transition is observed in the alloy with x = 0.04. The magnetization curve as a function of increasing temperature shows only one first-order transition in the temperature range 5-400 K, which is identified as a typical coupled magnetostructural martensitic transformation. The magnetization curve as a function of decreasing temperature shows three different transitions, which are characterized as the ferromagnetic transition, the martensitic transition and the intermartensitic transition.

Tuning the magnetocaloric response in half-Heusler/Heusler MnNi1 +xSb solid solutions

Science.gov (United States)

Levin, Emily E.; Bocarsly, Joshua D.; Wyckoff, Kira E.; Pollock, Tresa M.; Seshadri, Ram

2017-12-01

Materials with a large magnetocaloric response are associated with a temperature change upon the application of a magnetic field and are of interest for applications in magnetic refrigeration and thermomagnetic power generation. The usual metric of this response is the gravimetric isothermal entropy change Δ SM . The use of a simple proxy for the Δ SM that is based on density functional theory (DFT) calculations of the magnetic electronic structure suggests that half-Heusler MnNiSb should be a better magnetocaloric than the corresponding Heusler compound MnNi2Sb . Guided by this observation, we present a study of MnNi1 +xSb (x =0 , 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, and 1.0) to evaluate relevant structural and magnetic properties. DFT stability calculations suggest that the addition of Ni takes place at a symmetrically distinct Ni site in the half-Heusler structure and support the observation using synchrotron x-ray diffraction of a homogeneous solid solution between the half-Heusler and Heusler end members. There is a maximum in the saturation magnetization at x =0.5 and the Curie temperature systematically decreases with increasing x . Δ SM for a maximum magnetic field change of Δ H =5 T monotonically decreases in magnitude from -2.93 J kg-1K-1 in the half-Heusler to -1.35 J kg-1K-1 in the Heusler compound. The concurrent broadening of the magnetic transition results in a maximum in the refrigerant capacity at x =0.75 . The Curie temperature of this system is highly tunable between 350 K and 750 K, making it ideal for low grade waste heat recovery via thermomagnetic power generation. The increase in Δ SM with decreasing x may be extendable to other MnNi2Z Heusler systems that are currently under investigation for use in magnetocaloric refrigeration applications.

Magnetism and electronic transport in (Cu,Ni)2MnSn Heusler alloys under ambient and elevated pressures

Czech Academy of Sciences Publication Activity Database

Bose, S. K.; Kudrnovský, Josef; Drchal, Václav

2011-01-01

Roč. 8, Suppl. 1 (2011), P137/1-P137/7 ISSN 1708-5284 R&D Projects: GA ČR GA202/09/0775 Institutional research plan: CEZ:AV0Z10100520 Keywords : Curie temprature * resistivity * spin-disorder resistivity * Heusler alloys * first-principles Subject RIV: BM - Solid Matter Physics ; Magnetism http://wjoe.hebeu.edu.cn/sup.1.2011/B/Bose,%20S.K.%20(Brock%20U.,%20Ontario,%20Canada)%20137.pdf

Structural stability, electronic structure and magnetic properties of the new hypothetical half-metallic ferromagnetic full-Heusler alloy CoNiMnSi

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Elahmar M.H.

2016-03-01

Full Text Available We investigated the structural stability as well as the mechanical, electronic and magnetic properties of the Full-Heusler alloy CoNiMnSi using the full-potential linearized augmented plane wave (FP-LAPW method. Two generalized gradient approximations (GGA and GGA + U were used to treat the exchange-correlation energy functional. The ground state properties of CoNiMnSi including the lattice parameter and bulk modulus were calculated. The elastic constants (Cij and their related elastic moduli as well as the thermodynamic properties for CoNiMnSi have been calculated for the first time. The existence of half-metallic ferromagnetism (HM-FM in this material is apparent from its band structure. Our results classify CoNiMnSi as a new HM-FM material with high spin polarization suitable for spintronic applications.

Influence of intermetallic Fe and Co on crystal structure disorder and magnetic property of Ni50Mn32Al18 Heusler alloy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Notonegoro, H. A.; Kurniawan, B.; Manaf, A.; Setiawan, J.; Nanto, D.

2016-01-01

This works reports a study on structure and magnetic properties influenced by both Fe and Co on Ni 50 Mn 32 Al 18 Heusler alloy as a candidate of magnetocaloric effect (MCE) materials. The Ni-Fe-Mn-Co-Al sample was prepared by arc melting furnace (AMF) in high purity argon atmosphere. X-ray diffraction investigation and magnetic hysteresis were conducted to characterize the synthesized sample. X-ray diffraction using Cu-Kα pattern shows that both Fe and Co introduce a tungsten type disorder of Ni 50 Mn 32 Al 18 Heusler alloy which partially replace the site position of Ni and Mn respectively. However, in this tungsten type disorder, it is difficult to distinguish the exact position of each constituent atom. Therefore, we believe it may allow any exchange interaction of each electron possessed the atom. Interestingly, it produced a significant increase in the value of the hysteresis magnetic saturation. (paper)

Study of the hyperfine magnetic field at Ta181 site in the Heusler Co2 Sc Sn, Co2 Sc Ga and Co2 Hf Sn alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Attili, R.N.

1992-01-01

The hyperfine magnetic fields acting on 181 Ta nuclei at the Sc and Hf sites have been measured in Heusler alloys Co 2 Sc Sn and Co 2 Sc Ga and Co 2 Hf Sn using the Time Differential Perturbed γ-γ Angular Correlation (TDPAC) technique. The measurements were carried out using an automatic spectrometer consisting of two Ba F 2 detectors and the conventional electronics. The magnitude of hyperfine magnetic field at 181 Ta was measured for all the alloys. The signs of the were determined in the cases of Co 2 Sc Sn and Co 2 Hf Sn alloys by performing the Perturbed Angular Correlation measurements with an external polarizing magnetic field of ≅ 5 k Gauss. The hyperfine magnetic fields obtained are -187,6± 3,3 and 90,0 ± 2,1 kOe measured at 77 K for Co 2 Sc Sn and Co 2 Sc Ga alloys respectively, and -342,4 ± 10,1 kOe measured at the room temperature for Co 2 Hf Sn alloy. These results are discussed and compared with the hyperfine magnetic field systematics in Co-based Heusler alloy. (author)

Magnetotransport properties of Ni-Mn-In Heusler Alloys: Giant Hall angle

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Dubenko, I; Pathak, A K; Ali, N [Department of Physics, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL 62901 (United States); Kovarskii, Y A; Prudnikov, V N; Perov, N S; Granovsky, A B, E-mail: granov@magn.r [Faculty of Physics, Moscow State University, Moscow, 111991 (Russian Federation)

2010-01-01

We report experimental results on phase transitions, magnetic properties, resistivity, and Hall effect in Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 50-x}In{sub x} (15Heusler alloys. Several distinguishing features of magnetotransport properties were clearly observed in the vicinity of the first order structural martensitic transition at T{sub M} and the ferromagnetic-paramagnetic transition at the Curie temperature T{sub C} of the austenitic phase. It was found that the Hall resistivity {rho}{sub H}(at H = 15 kOe) is positive in martensitic and negative in austenitic phase, sharply increases in the vicinity of T{sub M} up to {rho}{sub H}(15 kOe)= 50 {mu}{Omega}{center_dot}cm. This value is almost two orders of magnitude larger than that observed at high temperature (T{approx}200 K) for any common magnetic materials, and comparable to the giant Hall effect resistivity in magnetic nanogranular alloys. The Hall angle {Theta}{sub H}=tan{sup -} {sup 1}({rho}{sub H}/{rho}) close to T{sub M} reaches tan{sup -1}(0.5) which is the highest value for known magnetic materials.

Magnetism and electronic structure of CoFeCrX (X = Si, Ge) Heusler alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Jin, Y.; O'Connell, A.; Kharel, P.; Lukashev, P.; Staten, B.; Tutic, I.; Valloppilly, S.; Herran, J.; Mitrakumar, M.; Bhusal, B.; Huh, Y.; Yang, K.; Skomski, R.; Sellmyer, D. J.

2016-01-01

The structural, electronic, and magnetic properties of CoFeCrX (X = Si, Ge) Heusler alloys have been investigated. Experimentally, the alloys were synthesized in the cubic L2 1 structure with small disorder. The cubic phase of CoFeCrSi was found to be highly stable against heat treatment, but CoFeCrGe disintegrated into other new compounds when the temperature reached 402 °C (675 K). Although the first-principle calculation predicted the possibility of tetragonal phase in CoFeCrGe, the tetragonal phase could not be stabilized experimentally. Both CoFeCrSi and CoFeCrGe compounds showed ferrimagnetic spin order at room temperature and have Curie temperatures (T C ) significantly above room temperature. The measured T C for CoFeCrSi is 790 K but that of CoFeCrGe could not be measured due to its dissociation into new compounds at 675 K. The saturation magnetizations of CoFeCrSi and CoFeCrGe are 2.82 μ B /f.u. and 2.78 μ B /f.u., respectively, which are close to the theoretically predicted value of 3 μ B /f.u. for their half-metallic phases. The calculated band gaps for CoFeCrSi and CoFeCrGe are, respectively, 1 eV and 0.5 eV. These materials have potential for spintronic device applications, as they exhibit half-metallic electronic structures with large band gaps, and Curie temperatures significantly above room temperature.

An ab initio study on the structural, electronic and mechanical properties of quaternary full-Heusler alloys FeMnCrSn and FeMnCrSb

Science.gov (United States)

Erkişi, Aytaç

2018-06-01

The quaternary full Heusler alloys FeMnCrSn and FeMnCrSb, which have face-centred cubic (FCC) crystal structure and conform to ? space group with 216 space number, have been investigated using Generalised Gradient Approximation (GGA) in the Density Functional Theory (DFT) as implemented in VASP (Vienna Ab initio Simulation Package) software. These alloys are considered in ferromagnetic (FM) order. After the investigation of structural stability of these alloys, their mechanical and thermal properties and also electronic band structures have been examined. The calculated spin-polarised electronic band structures and total electronic density of states (DOS) within GGA approximation show that these alloys can exhibit both metallic and half-metallic characters in different structural phases. The calculated formation enthalpies and the plotted energy-volume graphs show that Type-III phase is most stable structural phase for these materials. Also, FeMnCrSb alloy in Type-I/Type-III phases and FeMnCrSn alloy in Type-III phase show half-metallic behaviour with integer total magnetic moments almost 2 and 1 μB per formula unit, respectively, since there are band gaps observed in spin-down states, whereas they have metallic behaviour in majority bands. Other structural phases of both systems are also metallic. Moreover, the calculated elastic constants and the estimated anisotropy shear factors indicate that these materials are stable mechanically in all of three phases except FeMnCrSn in Type-I phase that does not satisfy Born stability criteria in this phase and have high anisotropic behaviour.

The defect-induced changes of the electronic and magnetic properties in the inverse Heusler alloy Ti{sub 2}CoAl

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Chen, Ying, E-mail: ychenjz@163.com [School of Physical Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715 (China); Wu, Bo [Department of Physics, Zunyi Normal College, Zunyi 563002 (China); Yuan, Hongkuan; Feng, Yu [School of Physical Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715 (China); Chen, Hong, E-mail: chenh@swu.edu.cn [School of Physical Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715 (China)

2015-01-15

The first-principles calculations are performed to investigate the effect of swap, antisite and vacancy defects of three classes on the electronic and magnetic properties in the inverse Heusler alloy Ti{sub 2}CoAl of half-metallicity. Our calculations reveal that Ti(A/B)–Co and Co–Al swaps, Ti(A/B) and Al vacancy defects as well as Co{sub Ti(A)/Al} and Al{sub Ti(A)/Ti(B)} antisite defects are likely to form in a concentration as high as 12.5%. Among them, Co{sub Ti(A)} antisite is detected to be the most probable defect. It is shown that the spin polarizations of Ti{sub 2}CoAl are considerably reduced by the Ti(A/B)–Co swap and Ti(B)/Al vacancy defects, while a quite high spin polarization around 95% is observed in Co–Al swap as well as Ti(A) vacancy. Remarkably, all the likely antisite defects almost retain the half-metallic character in a concentration of 12.5% even if they have the possibility to form. However, induced by antisites, the Fermi levels shift to the edge of band gap with small peaks arising just above the Fermi level, which may destroy the half-metallicity by spin-flip excitation. - Graphical abstract: The spin polarization and formation energy of various possible defects in inverse Heusler alloy Ti{sub 2}CoAl. The triangle, star and square represent the swap, antisite and vacancy defects, respectively. - Highlights: • The swap, antisite, and vacancy defects are studied in half-metallic Ti{sub 2}CoAl. • The Co{sub Ti(A)} antisite is the most probable among the studied defects. • The antisite defects almost retain the half-metallicity. • Most of swap and vacancy defects have degraded the half-metallicity. • High spin polarizations are detected in Co–Al swap and Ti(A) vacancy defects.

EDITORIAL: New materials with high spin polarization: half-metallic Heusler compounds

Science.gov (United States)

Felser, Claudia; Hillebrands, Burkard

2007-03-01

thin film Appl. Phys. Lett. 88 262503 [6] Thomas A, Meyners D, Ebke D, Liu N-N, Sacher M D, Schmalhorst J, Reiss G, Ebert H, and Hütten A 2006 Inverted spin polarization of Heusler alloys for spintronic devices Appl. Phys. Lett. 89 012502 [7] Hillebrands B and Felser C 2006 Editorial: High-spin polarization of Heusler alloys J. Phys. D: Appl. Phys. 39 issue 5 http://stacks.iop.org/0022-3727/39/i=5 [8] Galanakis I, Mavropoulos Ph and Dederichs P H 2006 Electronic structure and Slater-Pauling behaviour in half-metallic Heusler alloys calculated from first principles J. Phys. D: Appl. Phys. 39 765 J. Phys. D: Appl. Phys. 39 765 [9] Kandpal H C, Felser C and Seshadri R 2006 Covalent bonding and the nature of band gaps in some half-Heusler compounds J. Phys. D: Appl. Phys. 39 776 [10] Kallmayer M, Elmers H J, Balke B, Wurmehl S, Emmerling F, Fecher G H and Felser C 2006 Magnetic properties of Co2Mn1-xFexSi Heusler alloys J. Phys. D: Appl. Phys. 39 786 [11] Attema J J, de Wijs G A and de Groot R A 2006 The continuing drama of the half-metal/semiconductor interface J. Phys. D: Appl. Phys. 39 793 [12] Leziac M, Mavropoulos Ph, Bihlmayer G and Blügel S 2006 Scanning tunnelling microscopy of surfaces of half-metals: an ab-initio study on NiMnSb(001) J. Phys. D: Appl. Phys. 39 797 [13] Wurmehl S, Fecher G H, Kroth K, Kronast F, Dürr H A, Takeda Y, Saitoh Y, Kobayashi K, Lin H-J, Schönhense G and Felser C 2006 Electronic structure and spectroscopy of the quaternary Heusler alloy Co2Cr1-xFexAl J. Phys. D: Appl. Phys. 39 803 [14] Inomata K, Okamura S, Miyazaki A, Kikuchi M, Tezuka N, Wojcik M and Jedryka E 2006 Structural and magnetic properties and tunnel magnetoresistance for Co2(Cr,Fe)Al and Co2FeSi full-Heusler alloys J. Phys. D: Appl. Phys. 39 816 [15] Yamamoto M, Marukame T, Ishikawa T, Matsuda K, Uemura T and Arita M 2006 Fabrication of fully epitaxial magnetic tunnel junctions using cobalt-based full-Heusler alloy thin film and their tunnel magnetoresistance

Synthesize and microstructure characterization of Ni43Mn41Co5Sn11 Heusler alloy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Elwindari, Nastiti; Manaf, Azwar

2016-01-01

The ferromagnetic heusler alloys are promising materials in many technical applications due to their multifunctional properties such as shape memory effect, magnetocaloric effect, giant magnetoresistance, etc. In this work, synthesize and characterization of polycrystalline Ni 43 Mn 41 Co 5 Sn 11 (NMCS) alloy are reported. Alloy preparation was conducted by melting the constitute elements under an innert Argon (Ar) atmosphere in a vacuum mini arc-melting furnace. Homogenization of the microstructure of the as-cast ingot was obtained after annealing process at 750°C for 48 hours. It is shown that the dendrites structure has changed to equaixed grains morphology after homogenization. Microstructure characteristics of material by x-ray diffraction revealed that the alloy has a L 21 -type cubic crystal structure as the main phase at room temperature. In order to induce the shape anisotropy, a forging treatment was applied to show the shape orientation of material. Various enhancements of magnetic properties in a longitudinal direction were observed at various degree of anisotropy. The microstructure changes of as-cast NMCS and effects of homogenization treatments as studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS) are discussed in details.

Electronic Structure Properties and a Bonding Model of Thermoelectric Half-Heusler and Boride Phases

Science.gov (United States)

Simonson, Jack William

Half-Heusler alloys MNiSn and MCoSb (M = Ti, Zr, Hf) and layered boride intermetallics with structure types YCrB4 and Er 3CrB7 were designed, synthesized, and characterized. The thermoelectric properties of these two classes of alloys were measured from room temperature to 1100 K with the intent of indirectly studying their electronic structure properties and gauging not only their suitability but that of related alloys for high temperature thermoelectric power generation. In the case of the half-Heusler alloys, transition metals were substituted to both the M and Ni/Co sites to study the resultant modifications of the d-orbital-rich portion of the electronic structure near the Fermi energy. This modification and subsequent pinning of the Fermi energy within the gap is discussed herein in terms of first principles electronic structure calculations from the literature. In the half-Heusler alloys, it was found that substitution of transition metals invariably led to a decrease in the thermopower, while the resistivity typically maintained its semiconducting trend. On the other hand, Sn doping in MCoSb type alloys -- a dopant that has been known for some time to be efficient -- was shown to result in high ZT at temperatures in excess of 1000 K. Moreover, the band gaps of the transition metal-doped alloys measured in this work offer insight into the discrepancy between the predicted and measured band gaps in the undoped parent compositions. In the case of the layered boride alloys, on the other hand, few electronic calculations have been published, thus prompting the generalization of a well-known electron counting rule -- which is typically used to study molecular organometallics, boranes, and metallocenes -- to predict the trends in the densities of states of crystalline solids that possess the requisite deltahedral bonding geometry. In accordance with these generalized electronic counting rules, alloys of the form RMB4 (R = Y, Gd, Ho; M = Cr, Mo, W) were measured to

Co2FeSi Heusler alloy prepared by arc melting and planar flow casting methods: microstructure and magnetism.

Czech Academy of Sciences Publication Activity Database

Titov, Andrii; Životský, O.; Hendrych, A.; Janičkovič, D.; Buršík, Jiří; Jirásková, Yvonna

2017-01-01

Roč. 131, č. 4 (2017), s. 654-656 ISSN 0587-4246. [CSMAG 2016 - Czech and Slovak Conference on Magnetism /16./. Košice, 13.06.2016-17.06.2016] Institutional support: RVO:68081723 Keywords : Heusler alloy * Surface morphology * Magnetic properties * Arc melting * Planar flow casting Subject RIV: BM - Solid Matter Physics ; Magnetism; BM - Solid Matter Physics ; Magnetism (UFM-A) OBOR OECD: Condensed matter physics (including formerly solid state physics, supercond.) Impact factor: 0.469, year: 2016

Extraordinary magnetic and structural properties of the off-stoichiometric and the Co-doped Ni.sub.2./sub.MnGa Heusler alloys under high pressure

Czech Academy of Sciences Publication Activity Database

Kamarád, Jiří; Albertini, F.; Arnold, Zdeněk; Fabbrici, S.; Kaštil, Jiří

2014-01-01

Roč. 77, Sep (2014), s. 60-67 ISSN 1359-6454 R&D Projects: GA ČR GAP204/12/0692 Institutional support: RVO:68378271 Keywords : Heusler alloys * martensitic transformation * magnetic properties * high pressure Subject RIV: BM - Solid Matter Physics ; Magnetism Impact factor: 4.465, year: 2014

Martensitic transformation and magnetic properties of manganese-rich Ni-Mn-In and Ni-Mn-Sn Heusler alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Krenke, T.

2007-01-01

In the present work, the martensitic transition and the magnetic properties of Manganese rich Ni 50 Mn 50-x Sn x and Ni 50 Mn 50-y In y alloys with 5 at%≤x(y)≤25 at% were investigated. Calorimetry, X-ray and neutron diffraction, magnetization, and strain measurements were performed on polycrystalline samples. It was shown that alloys close to the stoichiometric composition Ni 50 Mn 25 Sn 25 and Ni 50 Mn 25 Sn 25 do not exhibit a structural transition on lowering of the temperature, whereas alloys with x≤15 at% Tin and y≤16 at% Indium transform martensitically. The structural transition temperatures increase linearly with decreasing Tin or Indium content. The crystal structures of the low temperature martensite are modulated as well as unmodulated. Alloys with compositions close to stoichiometry are dominated by ferromagnetic interactions, whereas those close to the binary composition Ni 50 Mn 50 order antiferromagnetically. Ferromagnetic order and structural instability coexist in a narrow composition range between 13 at%≤x≤15 at% and 15 at%≤x≤16 at% for Ni 50 Mn 50-x Sn x and Ni 50 Mn 50-y In y respectively. As a consequence, interesting magnetoelastic effects are observed. The Ni 50 Mn 34 In 16 alloy shows a magnetic field-induced structural transition, whereby application of an external magnetic field in the martensitic state stabilizes the high temperature L2 1 structure. Evidence for this was given by neutron diffraction experiments in external magnetic fields. Moreover, the structural transition temperatures of this alloy show large magnetic field dependencies. By use of calorimetry, M(T), and strain measurements, changes in M s up to -11 K/Tesla are observed. Such large values have, until now, not been observed in Heusler alloys. Since during transformation the volume changes reversibly, magnetic field-induced strains of about 0.12 % appear. Additionally, the alloys Ni 50 Mn 35 Sn 15 , Ni 50 Mn 37 Sn 13 , Ni 50 Mn 34 In 16 , Ni 51.5 Mn 33 In

Magnetocaloric effect in Heusler alloys Ni50Mn34In16 and Ni50Mn34Sn16

Science.gov (United States)

Sharma, V. K.; Chattopadhyay, M. K.; Kumar, Ravi; Ganguli, Tapas; Tiwari, Pragya; Roy, S. B.

2007-12-01

We present results of detailed ac susceptibility, magnetization and specific heat measurements in Heusler alloys Ni50Mn34In16 and Ni50Mn34Sn16. These alloys undergo a paramagnetic to ferromagnetic transition around 305 K, which is followed by a martensitic transition in the temperature regime around 220 K. Inside the martensite phase both the alloys show signatures of field-induced transition from martensite to austenite phase. Both field- and temperature-induced martensite-austenite transitions are relatively sharp in Ni50Mn34In16. We estimate the isothermal magnetic entropy change and adiabatic temperature change across the various phase transitions in these alloys and investigate the possible influence of these transitions on the estimated magnetocaloric effect. The sharp martensitic transition in Ni50Mn34In16 gives rise to a comparatively large inverse magnetocaloric effect across this transition. On the other hand the magnitudes of the conventional magnetocaloric effect associated with the paramagnetic to ferromagnetic transition are quite comparable in these alloys.

High performance p-type segmented leg of misfit-layered cobaltite and half-Heusler alloy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hung, Le Thanh; Van Nong, Ngo; Snyder, G. Jeffrey; Viet, Man Hoang; Balke, Benjamin; Han, Li; Stamate, Eugen; Linderoth, Søren; Pryds, Nini

2015-01-01

Highlights: • p-type segmented leg of oxide and half-Heusler was for the first time demonstrated. • The maximum conversion efficiency reached a value of about 5%. • The results are among the highest reported values so far for oxide-based legs. • Oxide-based segmented leg is very promising for generating electricity. - Abstract: In this study, a segmented p-type leg of doped misfit-layered cobaltite Ca 2.8 Lu 0.15 Ag 0.05 Co 4 O 9+δ and half-Heusler Ti 0.3 Zr 0.35 Hf 0.35 CoSb 0.8 Sn 0.2 alloy was fabricated and characterized. The thermoelectric properties of single components, segmented leg, and the electrical contact resistance of the joint part were measured as a function of temperature. The output power generation characteristics of segmented legs were characterized in air under various temperature gradients, ΔT, with the hot side temperature up to 1153 K. At ΔT ≈ 756 K, the maximum conversion efficiency reached a value of ∼5%, which is about 65% of that expected from the materials without parasitic losses. The long-term stability investigation for two weeks at the hot and cold side temperatures of 1153/397 K shows that the segmented leg has good durability as a result of stable and low electrical resistance contacts

Search for half-metallic magnets with large half-metallic gaps in the quaternary Heusler alloys CoFeTiZ and CoFeVZ (Z=Al, Ga, Si, Ge, As, Sb)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Xiong, Lun; Yi, Lin; Gao, G.Y.

2014-01-01

We investigate the electronic structure and magnetic properties of the twelve quaternary Heusler alloys CoFeTiZ and CoFeVZ (Z=Al, Ga, Si, Ge, As, Sb) by using the first-principles calculations. It is shown that only CoFeTiSi, CoFeTiAs and CoFeVSb are half-metallic ferromagnets with considerable half-metallic gaps of 0.31, 0.18 and 0.17 eV, respectively. CoFeTiAl and CoFeTiGa are conventional semiconductors, and other alloys exhibit nearly half-metallicity or their half-metallic gaps are almost zero eV. We also find that the half-metallicities of CoFeTiSi, CoFeTiAs and CoFeVSb can be preserved under appropriate uniform and in-plane strains. The considerable half-metallic gaps and the robust half-metallicities under uniform and in-plane strains make CoFeTiSi, CoFeTiAs and CoFeVSb promising candidates for spintronic applications. - Highlights: • CoFeTiSi, CoFeTiAs and CoFeVSb have considerable half-metallic gaps. • Total magnetic moments obey the Slater–Pauling behavior of quaternary Heusler half-metals. • CoFeTiSi, CoFeTiAs and CoFeVSb retain half-metallicity under uniform and in-plane strains

Magnetic microstructure of candidates for epitaxial dual Heusler magnetic tunnel junctions

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kaiser, A.; Banerjee, D.; Rata, A.D.; Wiemann, C.; Cramm, S.; Schneider, C.M.

2009-01-01

Heusler alloys are considered as interesting ferromagnetic electrode materials for magnetic tunnel junctions, because of their high spin polarization. We, therefore, investigated the micromagnetic properties in a prototypical thin film system comprising two different Heusler phases Co 2 MnSi (CMS) and Co 2 FeSi (CFS) separated by a MgO barrier. The magnetic microstructure was investigated by X-ray photoemission electron microscopy (XPEEM). We find a strong influence of the Heusler phase formation process on the magnetic domain patterns. SiO 2 /V/CMS/MgO/CFS and SiO 2 /V/CFS/MgO/CMS trilayer structures exhibit a strikingly different magnetic behavior, which is due to pinhole coupling through the MgO barrier and a strong thickness dependence of the magnetic ordering in Co 2 MnSi

Monocrystalline Heusler Co2FeSi alloy glass-coated microwires: Fabrication and magneto-structural characterization

Science.gov (United States)

Galdun, L.; Ryba, T.; Prida, V. M.; Zhukova, V.; Zhukov, A.; Diko, P.; Kavečanský, V.; Vargova, Z.; Varga, R.

2018-05-01

Large scale production of single crystalline phase of Heusler Co2FeSi alloy microwire is reported. The long microwire (∼1 km) with the metallic nucleus diameter of about 2 μm is characterized by well oriented monocrystalline structure (B2 phase, with the lattice parameter a = 5.615 Å). Moreover, the crystallographic direction [1 0 1] is parallel to the wire's axis along the entire length. Additionally, the wire is characterized by exhibiting a high Curie temperature (Tc > 800 K) and well-defined magnetic anisotropy mainly governed by shape. Electrical resistivity measurement reveals the exponential suppression of the electron-magnon scattering which provides strong evidence on the half-metallic behaviour of this material in the low temperature range.

Effect of Spark Plasma Sintering on the Structure and Properties of Ti1−xZrxNiSn Half-Heusler Alloys

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Ruth A. Downie

2014-10-01

Full Text Available XNiSn (X = Ti, Zr and Hf half-Heusler alloys have promising thermoelectric properties and are attracting enormous interest for use in waste heat recovery. In particular, multiphase behaviour has been linked to reduced lattice thermal conductivities, which enables improved energy conversion efficiencies. This manuscript describes the impact of spark plasma sintering (SPS on the phase distributions and thermoelectric properties of Ti0.5Zr0.5NiSn based half-Heuslers. Rietveld analysis reveals small changes in composition, while measurement of the Seebeck coefficient and electrical resistivities reveals that all SPS treated samples are electron doped compared to the as-prepared samples. The lattice thermal conductivities fall between 4 W·m−1·K−1 at 350 K and 3 W·m−1·K−1 at 740 K. A maximum ZT = 0.7 at 740 K is observed in a sample with nominal Ti0.5Zr0.5NiSn composition.

Room temperature inverse magnetocaloric effect in Pd substituted Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 37}Sn{sub 13} Heusler alloys

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Saha, Ritwik, E-mail: ritwik.saha@tifr.res.in; Nigam, A.K.

2014-09-01

The structural, magnetic and magnetocaloric effects for Ni{sub 50−x}Pd{sub x}Mn{sub 37}Sn{sub 13} Heusler alloys have been investigated around both structural and magnetic transitions. The room temperature X-ray diffraction indicates 10 M modulated martensitic structure with an orthorhombic unit cell for x=0 and 1. However, the superstructure reflections for x=2 alloy imply that the pattern is related to the L2{sub 1} phase. The maximum entropy change occurring at the martensitic transition is found to be 21 J kg{sup −1} K{sup −1} for Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 37}Sn{sub 13} alloy around room temperature. Despite the smaller change in entropy around room temperature, 3.8 times larger value of refrigerant capacity (184.6 J/kg) is achieved for 2% substitution of Pd, due to occurrence of magnetic entropy change in a broader temperature region.

Neutron irradiation effects on magnetic properties of some Heusler alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Onodera, Hideya; Shinohara, Takeshi; Yamamoto, Hisao; Watanabe, Hiroshi

1975-01-01

The neutron irradiation effects were studied with measurements of temperature dependence of magnetization in ordered and disordered Heusler alloys. The irradiation was carried out in JMTR with a total flux of fast neutrons of 10 20 nvt. Fully ordered Cu 2 MnIn, partially ordered Cu 2 MnAl and completely disordered Cu 2 MnSn were prepared with various temperature treatments. The magnetization-temperature curves of each specimen were measured before and after irradiation. In the irradiated Cu 2 MnIn, the disordering by the irradiation gave rise to a decrease of magnetization, and the temperature dependence of magnetization showed that the disordered region contained various regions with different degrees of disorder. For the distribution of the disordered region, the calculation based on the theory of temperature spike by Seitz and Koekler gave a feasible result that a disordered region comprised a central core with a radius of 5.4 A which was completely disordered and a periphery of 3.3 A thickness which was partially disordered. From the magnetization-temperature curves of Cu 2 MnAl, it was considered that the disordered regions induced by the irradiation had different properties from those induced by the heat treatment. The former were the localized and comprised regions corresponding to various degrees of disorder, while the latter spread spatially in a wide range with a certain degree of disorder. The ordering by enhanced diffusion occurred simultaneously to an extent comparable to the disordering, and so it played an important role in the magnetization in the partially disordered Cu 2 MnAl. In the disordered Cu 2 MnSn, however, the ordering effect was very small. It is supposed to be difficult for the A2 structure to transform into the L2 1 structure by the enhanced diffusion. (auth.)

Structural, transport, magnetic, magnetocaloric properties and critical analysis of Ni-Co-Mn-Ga Heusler alloys

Science.gov (United States)

Arumugam, S.; Devarajan, U.; Esakki Muthu, S.; Singh, Sanjay; Thiyagarajan, R.; Raja, M. Manivel; Rama Rao, N. V.; Banerjee, Alok

2017-11-01

In this work, we have investigated structural, transport, magnetic, magnetocaloric (MC) properties and critical exponents analysis of the (Ni2.1-xCox)Mn0.9 Ga (x = 0, 0.04, 0.12 and 0.2) Heusler alloys. For all compositions, cubic austenite (A) phase with metallic character is observed at room temperature (RT). With increasing of Co content, magnitude of resistivity decreases, whereas residual resistivity (ρ0) and electron scattering factor (A) increases linearly. Magnetic measurements exhibit that ferromagnetic (FM) Curie temperature (TCA) increases towards RT by increasing Co concentration. All samples show conventional MC and maximum magnetic entropy change (ΔSMpeak) of -2.8 Jkg-1 K-1 is observed for x = 0.12 at 147 K under 5 T. Further, hysteresis is observed between cooling and warming cycles around FM-PM (TCA) transition in x = 0, 0.04 samples, which suggests that first order nature of transition. However, there is no hysteresis across TCA for x = 0.12 and 0.2 samples suggesting second-order nature of the transition. The critical exponents are calculated for x = 0.12 sample around TCA using Arrott plot and Kouvel-Fisher method, the estimated critical exponents are found closer to the mean-field model reveals the long range ferromagnetic ordering in this composition.

Effect of Fe substitution at the Ni and Mn sites on the magnetic properties of Ni50Mn35In15 Heusler alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Halder, Madhumita; Suresh, K.G.

2015-01-01

The structural and magnetic properties of Ni 48 Fe 2 Mn 35 In 15 and Ni 50 Mn 34 FeIn 15 Heusler alloys have been investigated. At room temperature, Ni 48 Fe 2 Mn 35 In 15 has L2 1 cubic structure, whereas Ni 50 Mn 34 FeIn 15 shows a two-phase structure due to the martensitic transition. In the case of Ni 48 Fe 2 Mn 35 In 15 , there is only one magnetic transition at 316 K with no martensitic transition. However, in Ni 50 Mn 34 FeIn 15 , we observe the martensitic transition at about 280 K. The Curie temperatures for austenite and martensite phases are 314 and 200 K, respectively. The maximum magnetic entropy changes are found to be 5.5 and 4.5 J kg −1 K −1 for Ni 48 Fe 2 Mn 35 In 15 and Ni 50 Mn 34 FeIn 15 , respectively, for 50 kOe. Ni 50 Mn 34 FeIn 15 exhibits exchange bias behavior, with a bias field of 130 Oe at 5 K. Both the alloys satisfy the empirical relation between the martensitic transition and the valence electron concentration (e/a) ratio. - Highlights: • Structural and magnetic properties of Ni 48 Fe 2 Mn 35 In 15 and Ni 50 Mn 34 FeIn 15 Heusler alloys have been investigated. • Ni 48 Fe 2 Mn 35 In 15 does not undergo a martensitic transition, whereas Ni 50 Mn 34 FeIn 15 shows martensitic transition. • Ni 50 Mn 34 FeIn 15 alloy exhibits exchange bias behavior. • Both alloys satisfy the empirical relation between martensitic transition and valence electron concentration (e/a)

Magnetocaloric effect in “reduced” dimensions: Thin films, ribbons, and microwires of Heusler alloys and related compounds: Magnetocaloric effect in “reduced” dimensions

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Khovaylo, Vladimir V. [National University of Science and Technology MISiS, Moscow 119049 Russia; ITMO University, St. Petersburg 197101 Russia; Rodionova, Valeria V. [National University of Science and Technology MISiS, Moscow 119049 Russia; Innovation Park and Institute of Physics & Technology, Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University, Kaliningrad 236041 Russia; Shevyrtalov, Sergey N. [Innovation Park and Institute of Physics & Technology, Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University, Kaliningrad 236041 Russia; Novosad, Val [Materials Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Argonne IL 60439 USA

2014-08-19

Room temperature magnetic refrigeration is an energy saving and environmentally-friendly technology which has developed rapidly from a basic idea to prototype devices. The performance of magnetic refrigerators crucially depends on the magnetocaloric properties and the geometry of the employed refrigerants. Here we review the magnetocaloric properties of Heusler alloys and related compounds with a high surface to volume ratio such as films, ribbons and microwires, and compare them with their bulk counterparts.

Synthesize and microstructure characterization of Ni{sub 43}Mn{sub 41}Co{sub 5}Sn{sub 11} Heusler alloy

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Elwindari, Nastiti; Manaf, Azwar, E-mail: azwar@ui.ac.id [Physics Department, Faculty of Science, Universitas Indonesia, Depok 16424 (Indonesia)

2016-06-17

The ferromagnetic heusler alloys are promising materials in many technical applications due to their multifunctional properties such as shape memory effect, magnetocaloric effect, giant magnetoresistance, etc. In this work, synthesize and characterization of polycrystalline Ni{sub 43}Mn{sub 41}Co{sub 5}Sn{sub 11} (NMCS) alloy are reported. Alloy preparation was conducted by melting the constitute elements under an innert Argon (Ar) atmosphere in a vacuum mini arc-melting furnace. Homogenization of the microstructure of the as-cast ingot was obtained after annealing process at 750°C for 48 hours. It is shown that the dendrites structure has changed to equaixed grains morphology after homogenization. Microstructure characteristics of material by x-ray diffraction revealed that the alloy has a L{sub 21}-type cubic crystal structure as the main phase at room temperature. In order to induce the shape anisotropy, a forging treatment was applied to show the shape orientation of material. Various enhancements of magnetic properties in a longitudinal direction were observed at various degree of anisotropy. The microstructure changes of as-cast NMCS and effects of homogenization treatments as studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS) are discussed in details.

Pulsed high-magnetic-field experiments: New insights into the magnetocaloric effect in Ni-Mn-In Heusler alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Salazar Mejía, C.; Nayak, A. K.; Felser, C.; Nicklas, M.; Ghorbani Zavareh, M.; Wosnitza, J.; Skourski, Y.

2015-01-01

The present pulsed high-magnetic-field study on Ni 50 Mn 35 In 15 gives an extra insight into the thermodynamics of the martensitic transformation in Heusler shape-memory alloys. The transformation-entropy change, ΔS, was estimated from field-dependent magnetization experiments in pulsed high magnetic fields and by heat-capacity measurements in static fields. We found a decrease of ΔS with decreasing temperature. This behavior can be understood by considering the different signs of the lattice and magnetic contributions to the total entropy. Our results further imply that the magnetocaloric effect will decrease with decreasing temperature and, furthermore, the martensitic transition is not induced anymore by changing the temperature in high magnetic fields

Magnetic interactions in martensitic Ni-Mn based Heusler systems

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Aksoy, Seda

2010-04-22

In this work, magnetic, magnetocaloric and structural properties are investigated in Ni-Mn-based martensitic Heusler alloys with the aim to tailor these properties as well as to understand in detail the magnetic interactions in the various crystallographic states of these alloys. We choose Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 34}In{sub 16} as a prototype which undergoes a martensitic transformation and exhibits field-induced strain and the inverse magnetocaloric effect. Using the structural phase diagram of martensitic Ni-Mn-based Heusler alloys, we substitute gallium and tin for indium to carry these effects systematically closer to room temperature by shifting the martensitic transformation. A magneto-calorimeter is designed and built to measure adiabatically the magnetocaloric effect in these alloys. The temperature dependence of strain under an external magnetic field is studied in Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 50-x}Z{sub x} (Z: Ga, Sn, In and Sb) and Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 34}In{sub 16-x}Z{sub x} (Z: Ga and Sn). An argument based on the effect of the applied magnetic field on martensite nucleation is adopted to extract information on the direction of the magnetization easy axis in the martensitic unit cell in Heusler alloys. Parallel to these studies, the structure in the presence of an external field is also studied by powder neutron diffraction. It is demonstrated that martensite nucleation is influenced by cooling the sample under a magnetic field such that the austenite phase is arrested within the martensitic state. The magnetic interactions in Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 37}Sn{sub 13} and Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 40}Sb{sub 10} are characterized by using neutron polarization analysis. Below the martensitic transformation temperature, M{sub s}, an antiferromagnetically correlated state is found. Ferromagnetic resonance experiments are carried out on Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 37}Sn{sub 13} and Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 34}In{sub 16} to gain more detailed information on the nature of the magnetic interactions. The experimental

First-principles study of new series of quaternary Heusler alloys CsSrCZ (Z=Si, Ge, Sn, P, As, and Sb)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Bouabça, A. [Condensed Matter and Sustainable Development Laboratory (LMCDD), University of Sidi Bel-Abbes, Sidi Bel-Abbes 22000 (Algeria); Rozale, H., E-mail: hrozale@yahoo.fr [Condensed Matter and Sustainable Development Laboratory (LMCDD), University of Sidi Bel-Abbes, Sidi Bel-Abbes 22000 (Algeria); Amar, A. [Condensed Matter and Sustainable Development Laboratory (LMCDD), University of Sidi Bel-Abbes, Sidi Bel-Abbes 22000 (Algeria); Wang, X.T. [School of Physics and Electronic Engineering, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing 400044 (China); Sayade, A. [UCCS, CNRS-UMR 8181, Université d’Artois, Faculté des Sciences Jean Perrin, Rue Jean Souvraz, SP 18, 62307 Lens Cedex (France); Chahed, A. [Condensed Matter and Sustainable Development Laboratory (LMCDD), University of Sidi Bel-Abbes, Sidi Bel-Abbes 22000 (Algeria)

2016-12-01

The structural, electronic, magnetic, and thermal properties of new quaternary Heusler alloys CsSrCZ (Z=Si, Ge, Sn, P, As, and Sb) were investigated using the full-potential linearized augmented plane wave (FPLAPW) within the generalized gradient approximation (GGA) and GGA plus modified Becke and Johnson as the exchange correlation. The results showed that all Heusler compounds were stable in Type (I) structure. The CsSrCZ (Z=Si, Ge, Sn) compounds had a nearly HM characteristic, and CsSrCZ (Z=P, As, Sb) compounds were true half-metallic (HM) ferromagnets. The strong spin polarization of p orbital for C, Si, Ge, Sn, P, As, and Sb atoms is found to be the origin of ferromagnetic. The half-metallicity is preserved up to a lattice contraction of 3.45%, 1.69%, 1.69%, 7.16%, 7.16%, and 11.2% for all six quaternary Heusler compounds. We also investigated the thermal effects using the quasi-harmonic Debye model. - Highlights: • Electronic, magnetic, and thermodynamic properties of CsSrCZ (Z=Si, Ge, Sn, P, As, and Sb) are investigated. • Until now, there have been no reports theoretical and experimental studies on d{sup 0} half-metals with quaternary structures. • The strong spin polarization of p orbital for C, Si, Ge, Sn, P, As, and Sb atoms is found to be the origin of ferromagnetic. • The half-metallicity is preserved up to a lattice contraction.

Performance analysis of STT-RAM with cross shaped free layer using Heusler alloys

Science.gov (United States)

Bharat Kumary, Tangudu; Ghosh, Bahniman; Awadhiya, Bhaskar; Verma, Ankit Kumar

2016-01-01

We have investigated the performance of a spin transfer torque random access memory (STT-RAM) cell with a cross shaped Heusler compound based free layer using micromagnetic simulations. We have designed a free layer using a Cobalt based Heusler compound. Simulation results clearly show that the switching time from one state to the other state has been reduced, also it has been found that the critical switching current density (to switch the magnetization of the free layer of the STT RAM cell) is reduced.

Study of electronic structure and magnetic properties of epitaxial Co{sub 2}FeAl Heusler Alloy Thin Films

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Soni, S. [Department of Pure & Applied Physics, University of Kota, Kota 324007 (India); Dalela, S., E-mail: sdphysics@rediffmail.com [Department of Pure & Applied Physics, University of Kota, Kota 324007 (India); Sharma, S.S. [Department of Physics, Govt. Women Engineering College, Ajmer (India); Liu, E.K.; Wang, W.H.; Wu, G.H. [State Key Laboratory for Magnetism, Beijing National Laboratory for Condensed Matter Physics, Institute of Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190 (China); Kumar, M. [Department of Physics, Malviya National Institute of Technology, Jaipur-302017 (India); Garg, K.B. [Department of Physics, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur-302004 (India)

2016-07-25

This work reports the magnetic and electronic characterization of plane magnetized buried Heusler Co{sub 2}FeAl nano thin films of different thickness by X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) and X-ray magnetic circular dichroism (XMCD) measurements. . The spectra on both Fe- and Co L{sub 2,3} edges show a pronounced magnetic dichroic signal in remanence, corresponding to a ferromagnetically-aligned moments on Fe and Co atoms conditioning the peculiar characteristics of the Co{sub 2}FeAl Heusler compound (a half-metallic ferromagnet). The detailed knowledge of the related magnetic and electronic properties of these samples over a wide range of thickness of films are indispensable for achieving a higher tunnel magnetoresistance ratio, and thus for spintronics device applications. - Highlights: • Electronic structure and Magnetic Properties of Epitaxial Co{sub 2}FeAl Heusler Films. • X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) and X-ray magnetic circular dichroism (XMCD). • Fe- and Co L{sub 2,3} edges show a pronounced magnetic dichroic signal in remanence. • Calculated Orbital, Spin and total magnetic moments of Fe and Co for 30 nm Co{sub 2}FeAl thin film. • The total magnetic moment of Fe at L{sub 2,3} edges increases with the thickness of the Co2FeAl films.

Temperature dependence of differential conductance in Co-based Heusler alloy Co2TiSn and superconductor Pb junctions

Science.gov (United States)

Ooka, Ryutaro; Shigeta, Iduru; Umetsu, Rie Y.; Nomura, Akiko; Yubuta, Kunio; Yamauchi, Touru; Kanomata, Takeshi; Hiroi, Masahiko

2018-05-01

We investigated temperature dependence of differential conductance G (V) in planar junctions consisting of Co-based Heusler alloy Co2TiSn and superconductor Pb. Ferromagnetic Co2TiSn was predicted to be half-metal by first-principles band calculations. The spin polarization P of Co2TiSn was deduced to be 60.0% at 1.4 K by the Andreev reflection spectroscopy. The G (V) spectral shape was smeared gradually with increasing temperature and its structure was disappeared above the superconducting transition temperature Tc. Theoretical model analysis revealed that the superconducting energy gap Δ was 1.06 meV at 1.4 K and the Tc was 6.8 K , indicating that both values were suppressed from bulk values. However, the temperature dependent Δ (T) behavior was in good agreement with that of the Bardeen-Cooper-Schrieffer (BCS) theory. The experimental results exhibit that the superconductivity of Pb attached to half-metallic Co2TiSn was kept the conventional BCS mechanism characterized strong-coupling superconductors while its superconductivity was slightly suppressed by the superconducting proximity effect at the Co2TiSn/Pb interface.

EDITORIAL: Cluster issue on Heusler compounds and devices Cluster issue on Heusler compounds and devices

Science.gov (United States)

Felser, Claudia; Hillebrands, Burkard

2009-04-01

Heusler alloy can be used to obtain information about the half-metallicity and the magnons as reported by Taira et al in this issue. An improvement of the tunnel magnetoresistance effect (TMR) at room temperature could be achieved by shifting the Fermi energy from the edges of the valence or the conduction band into the middle of the gap [12]. In the case of Co2FeSi0.5Al0.5 (CFAS), TMR values higher than 200% can be achieved [13]. The improvement of the interface seems to be important as has been shown by XMCD (x-ray magnetic circular dichroism) [14] and photoemission spectroscopy [15]. The interface magnetization is very often reduced [14]; however, the interface and the surface electron spin polarization can be improved by post annealing as reported by Wüstenberg et al in this issue. High energy photoemission spectroscopy is a new tool for investigating bulk properties of Heusler compounds [16]. In this issue we report on the investigation of a whole device structure by this technique due to the high escape depth inherent to this method in the contribution of Herbort et al. Dynamic correlations might be a reason for the formation of non-quasi-particles such as magnons in the gap [17], which destroy the half-metallicity and thus can be considered as another cause for the reduced TMR at room temperature. Thus correlations have to be taken into account. This is demonstrated for the Heusler compound Co2Mn1 - xFexSi as reported by Chadov et al in this issue. Magneto-optic methods are powerful instruments for investigating magnetic properties of Heusler compounds. The determination of the huge quadratic Kerr effect in the Co2FeSi Heusler compound is a good example [18]. In this issue Hamrle et al and Gaier et al report on the determination of the exchange constant by measuring the magnon dispersion properties using Brillouin light scattering spectroscopy. The magnon dispersion was calculated by Thoene et al. New developments in the field of spintronics go into the direction

Observation of giant exchange bias in bulk Mn50Ni42Sn8 Heusler alloy

Science.gov (United States)

Sharma, Jyoti; Suresh, K. G.

2015-02-01

We report a giant exchange bias (EB) field of 3520 Oe in bulk Mn50Ni42Sn8 Heusler alloy. The low temperature magnetic state of the martensite phase has been studied by DC magnetization and AC susceptibility measurements. Frequency dependence of spin freezing temperature (Tf) on critical slowing down relation and observation of memory effect in zero field cooling mode confirms the super spin glass (SSG) phase at low temperatures. Large EB is attributed to the strong exchange coupling between the SSG clusters formed by small regions of ferromagnetic order embedded in an antiferromagnetic (AFM) matrix. The temperature and cooling field dependence of EB have been studied and related to the change in unidirectional anisotropy at SSG/AFM interface. The training effect also corroborates with the presence of frozen (SSG) moments at the interface and their role in EB.

The effects of substituting Ag for In on the magnetoresistance and magnetocaloric properties of Ni-Mn-In Heusler alloys

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Sudip Pandey

2016-05-01

Full Text Available The effect of substituting Ag for In on the structural, magnetocaloric, and thermomagnetic properties of Ni50Mn35In15−xAgx (x = 0.1, 0.2, 0.5, and 1 Heusler alloys was studied. The magnitude of the magnetization change at the martensitic transition temperature (TM decreased with increasing Ag concentration. Smaller magnetic entropy changes (ΔSM were observed for the alloys with larger Ag concentrations and the martensitic transition shifted to higher temperature. A shift of TM by about 25 K to higher temperature was observed for an applied hydrostatic pressure of P = 6.6 kbar with respect to ambient pressure. A large drop in resistivity was observed for large Ag concentration. The magnetoresistance was dramatically suppressed due to an increase in the disorder of the system with increasing Ag concentration. Possible mechanisms responsible for the observed behavior are discussed.

Structure and properties of quarternary and tetragonal Heusler compounds for spintronics and spin transver torque applications

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Zamani, Vajiheh Alijani

2012-03-07

This work is divided into two parts: part 1 is focused on the prediction of half-metallicity in quaternary Heusler compounds and their potential for spintronic applications and part 2 on the structural properties of Mn{sub 2}-based Heusler alloys and tuning the magnetism of them from soft to hard-magnetic for spin-transfer torque applications. In part 1, three different series of quaternary Heusler compounds are investigated, XX'MnGa (X=Cu, Ni and X'=Fe,Co), CoFeMnZ (Z=Al,Ga,Si,Ge), and Co{sub 2-x}Rh{sub x}MnZ (Z=Ga,Sn,Sb). All of these quaternary compounds except CuCoMnGa are predicted to be half-metallic ferromagnets by ab-initio electronic structure calculations. In the XX'MnGa class of compounds, NiFeMnGa has a low Curie temperature for technological applications but NiCoMnGa with a high spin polarization, magnetic moment, and Curie temperature is an interesting new material for spintronics applications. All CoFeMnZ compounds exhibit a cubic Heusler structur and their magnetic moments are in fair agreement with the Slater-Pauling rule indicating the halfmetallicity and high spin polarization required for spintronics applications. Their high Curie temperatures make them suitable for utilization at room temperature and above. The structural investigation revealed that the crystal structure of all Co{sub 2-x}Rh{sub x}MnZ compounds aside from CoRhMnSn exhibit different types of anti-site disorder. The magnetic moments of the disordered compounds deviate from the Slater-Pauling rule indicating that 100% spin polarization are not realized in CoRhMnGa, CoRhMnSb, and Co{sub 0.5}Rh{sub 1.5}MnSb. Exchange of one Co in Co{sub 2}MnSn by Rh results in the stable, well-ordered compound CoRhMnSn. This exchange of one of the magnetic Co atoms by a non-magnetic Rh atom keeps the magnetic properties and half-metallicity intact. In part 2, two series of Mn{sub 2}-based Heusler alloys are investigated, Mn{sub 3-x}Co{sub x}Ga and Mn{sub 2-x}Rh{sub 1+x}Sn. It has been

Direct and indirect measurement of the magnetocaloric effect in bulk and nanostructured Ni-Mn-In Heusler alloy

Science.gov (United States)

Ghahremani, Mohammadreza; Aslani, Amir; Hosseinnia, Marjan; Bennett, Lawrence H.; Della Torre, Edward

2018-05-01

A systematic study of the magnetocaloric effect of a Ni51Mn33.4In15.6 Heusler alloy converted to nanoparticles via high energy ball-milling technique in the temperature range of 270 to 310 K has been performed. The properties of the particles were characterized by x-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, and magnetometer techniques. Isothermal magnetic field variation of magnetization exhibits field hysteresis in bulk Ni51Mn33.4In15.6 alloy across the martensitic transition which significantly lessened in the nanoparticles. The magnetocaloric effects of the bulk and nanoparticle samples were measured both with direct method, through our state of the art direct test bed apparatus with controllability over the applied fields and temperatures, as well as an indirect method through Maxwell and thermodynamic equations. In direct measurements, nanoparticle sample's critical temperature decreased by 6 K, but its magnetocaloric effect enhanced by 17% over the bulk counterpart. Additionally, when comparing the direct and indirect magnetocaloric curves, the direct method showed 14% less adiabatic temperature change in the bulk and 5% less adiabatic temperature change in the nanostructured sample.

27Al, 63Cu NMR spectroscopy and electrical transport in Heusler Cu-Mn-Al alloy powders

Science.gov (United States)

Nadutov, V. M.; Perekos, A. O.; Kokorin, V. V.; Trachevskii, V. V.; Konoplyuk, S. M.; Vashchuk, D. L.

2018-02-01

The ultrafine powder of the Heusler Cu-13,1Mn-12,6Al (wt.%) alloy produced by electrical spark dispersion (ESD) in ethanol and the pellets prepared by pressing of the powders and aged in various gas environment (air, Ar, vacuum) were studied by XRD, nuclear magnetic resonance, magnetic and electric transport methods. The constituent phases were identified as b.c.c. α-Cu-Mn-Al, f.c.c. γ-Cu-Mn-Al, Cu2MnAl, and oxides. The sizes of the coherently scattering domains (CSD) and the saturation magnetizations were in the range of 4-90 nm and 0-1.5 Am2/kg, respectively. 27Al and 63Cu NMR spectra of the powders and pellets have shown hyperfine structure caused by contributions from atomic nuclei of the constituent phases. The aging of pellets in different gas environments had effect on their phase composition but no effect on dispersion of the phases. In contrast to the as-cast alloy, electrical resistance of the pellets evidenced semiconducting behavior at elevated temperatures due to the presence of metal oxides formed on the surfaces of nanoparticles.

High-pressure and high-temperature physical properties of half-metallic full-Heusler alloy Mn{sub 2}RuSi by first-principles and quasi-harmonic Debye model

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Song, Ting [State Key Laboratory of Advanced Processing and Recycling of Non-ferrous Metals, Lanzhou University of Technology, Lanzhou 730050 (China); School of Mathematics and Physics, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, Lanzhou 730070 (China); Ma, Qin, E-mail: maqin_lut@yeah.net [State Key Laboratory of Advanced Processing and Recycling of Non-ferrous Metals, Lanzhou University of Technology, Lanzhou 730050 (China); Sun, Xiao-Wei [School of Mathematics and Physics, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, Lanzhou 730070 (China); Liu, Zi-Jiang [School of Mathematics and Physics, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, Lanzhou 730070 (China); Department of Physics, Lanzhou City University, Lanzhou 730070 (China); Wei, Xiao-Ping [School of Mathematics and Physics, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, Lanzhou 730070 (China); Tian, Jun-Hong [School of Mathematics and Physics, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, Lanzhou 730070 (China); Institute of Atomic and Molecular Physics, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065 (China)

2017-02-15

First-principles calculations based on density functional theory and quasi-harmonic Debye model are used to investigate the high-pressure and high-temperature physical properties, including the lattice constant, magnetic moment, density of states, pressure-volume-temperature relationship, bulk modulus, thermal expansivity, heat capacity, and Grüneisen parameter for the new Mn-based full-Heusler alloy Mn{sub 2}RuSi in CuHg{sub 2}Ti-type structure. The optimized equilibrium lattice constant is consistent with experimental and other theoretical results. The calculated total spin magnetic moment remains an integral value of 2.0 μ{sub B} in the lattice constant range of 5.454–5.758 Å, and then decreases very slowly with the decrease of lattice constant to 5.333 Å. By the spin resolved density of states calculations, we have shown that Mn{sub 2}RuSi compound presents half-metallic ferrimagnetic properties under the equilibrium lattice constant. The effects of temperature and pressure on bulk modulus, thermal expansivity, heat capacity, and Grüneisen parameter are opposite, which are consistent with a compression rate of volume. Furthermore, the results show that the effect of temperature is larger than pressure for heat capacity and the effect of high temperature and pressure on thermal expansion coefficient is small. All the properties of Mn{sub 2}RuSi alloy are summarized in the pressure range of 0–100 GPa and the temperature up to 1200 K. - Highlights: • High-pressure and high-temperature physical properties of Mn2RuSi were investigated. • Ferrimagnetic ground state has been confirmed in Mn2RuSi alloy. • The first-principle calculations and quasi-harmonic Debye model were used. • The pressure up to 100 GPa and the temperature up to 1200 K.

First principle investigations on Boron doped Fe2VAl Heusler alloy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Venkatesh, Ch.; Srivastava, S.K.; Rao, V.V.

2014-01-01

The role of atomic size of sp-element is investigated through theoretical calculations and basic experiments to understand the physical properties of Boron doped Fe 2 VAl alloy. The results of ab-initio calculations on ordered L2 1 structure of Fe 2 VAl 1-x B x (x=0, 0.5, 1) alloys have been compared to understand the role of sp-element size on the hybridization among their respective valance states. Interestingly, semi-metallic and paramagnetic like ground states were found in the Boron doped alloys in similar to Fe 2 VAl, eliminating the role of size of the doppent sp-atom. These calculations result in hybridization where the covalent distribution of valance states among the atoms is responsible to produce a finite pseudo-gap at the Fermi level. The observed features could be explained on the basis of covalent theory of magnetism in which an amount of spectral weight transfer occurs in the DOS spectrum among the same spin orbitals, leading to symmetric distribution of bonding and anti-bonding states. However, the obtained experimental findings on Boron doped alloys are in contrast with these calculations, indicating that experimentally the alloy formation into an ideal L2 1 lattice does not happen while doping with Boron. Further, the micro structural analysis shows Boron segregation across the grain boundaries that may form magnetic inhomogeneities in the lattice of Boron doped Fe 2 VAl alloys which preferably cause these experimental anomalies

Effect of an interface Mg insertion layer on the reliability of a magnetic tunnel junction based on a Co{sub 2}FeAl full-Heusler alloy

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Lee, Jungmin; Kil, Gyuhyun; Lee, Gaehun; Choi, Chulmin; Song, Yunheub [Hanyang University, Seoul (Korea, Republic of); Sukegawa, Hiroaki; Mitani, Seiji [National Institute for Materials Science, Ibaraki (Japan)

2014-04-15

The reliability of a magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) based on a Co{sub 2}FeAl (CFA) full-Heusler alloy with a MgO tunnel barrier was evaluated. In particular, the effect of a Mg insertion layer under the MgO was investigated in view of resistance drift by using various voltage stress tests. We compared the resistance change during constant voltage stress (CVS) and confirmed a trap/detrap phenomenon during the interval stress test for samples with and without a Mg insertion layer. The MTJ with a Mg insertion layer showed a relatively small resistance change for the CVS test and a reduced trap/detrap phenomenon for the interval stress test compared to the sample without a Mg insertion layer. This is understood to be caused by the improved crystallinity at the bottom of the CFA/MgO interface due to the Mg insertion layer, which provides a smaller number of trap site during the stress test. As a result, the interface condition of the MgO layer is very important for the reliability of a MTJ using a full-Heusler alloy, and the the insert of a Mg layer at the MgO interface is expected to be an effective method for enhancing the reliability of a MTJ.

Thickness dependencies of structural and magnetic properties of cubic and tetragonal Heusler alloy bilayer films

Science.gov (United States)

Ranjbar, R.; Suzuki, K. Z.; Sugihara, A.; Ando, Y.; Miyazaki, T.; Mizukami, S.

2017-07-01

The thickness dependencies of the structural and magnetic properties for bilayers of cubic Co-based Heusler alloys (CCHAs: Co2FeAl (CFA), Co2FeSi (CFS), Co2MnAl (CMA), and Co2MnSi (CMS)) and D022-MnGa were investigated. Epitaxy of the B2 structure of CCHAs on a MnGa film was achieved; the smallest thickness with the B2 structure was found for 3-nm-thick CMS and CFS. The interfacial exchange coupling (Jex) was antiferromagnetic (AFM) for all of the CCHAs/MnGa bilayers except for unannealed CFA/MnGa samples. A critical thickness (tcrit) at which perpendicular magnetization appears of approximately 4-10 nm for the CMA/MnGa and CMS/MnGa bilayers was observed, whereas this thickness was 1-3 nm for the CFA/MnGa and CFS/MnGa films. The critical thickness for different CCHAs materials is discussed in terms of saturation magnetization (Ms) and the Jex .

Effect of the Heusler phase formation on the magnetic behavior of the Cu–10 wt.%Mn alloy with Al and Ag additions

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Carvalho, T.M., E-mail: thaisa.mary@gmail.com [Instituto de Química – UNESP, Caixa Postal 355, 14801-970 Araraquara, SP (Brazil); Adorno, A.T.; Santos, C.M.A. [Instituto de Química – UNESP, Caixa Postal 355, 14801-970 Araraquara, SP (Brazil); Silva, R.A.G. [Departamento de Ciências Exatas e da Terra – UNIFESP, 09972-270 Diadema, SP (Brazil); Magnani, M. [Instituto de Química – UNESP, Caixa Postal 355, 14801-970 Araraquara, SP (Brazil)

2015-09-15

Highlights: • The presence of the Cu{sub 2}MnAl phase was observed in annealed alloys. • Al and Ag additions shift the equilibrium concentration to higher Al values. • There is a correlation between the Ag-rich phase and the Cu{sub 2}MnAl phase. - Abstract: In this work, the formation of the Cu{sub 2}AlMn Heusler phase and its influence on the magnetic behavior of the Cu–Mn–Al–Ag alloys in the range of 8–10 wt.% of aluminum and 2–4 wt.% of silver were studied using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), high-resolution TEM (HRTEM) and saturation magnetization measurements at 4 K. The results showed that there is a correlation between the presence of the Ag-rich phase and the formation of the Cu{sub 2}MnAl phase.

Martensitic transformation and magnetic properties of manganese-rich Ni-Mn-In and Ni-Mn-Sn Heusler alloys; Untersuchung der martensitischen Umwandlung und der magnetischen Eigenschaften Mangan-reicher Ni-Mn-In- und Ni-Mn-Sn-Heusler-Legierungen

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Krenke, T.

2007-06-29

In the present work, the martensitic transition and the magnetic properties of Manganese rich Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 50-x}Sn{sub x} and Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 50-y}In{sub y} alloys with 5 at%{<=}x(y){<=}25 at% were investigated. Calorimetry, X-ray and neutron diffraction, magnetization, and strain measurements were performed on polycrystalline samples. It was shown that alloys close to the stoichiometric composition Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 25}Sn{sub 25} and Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 25}Sn{sub 25} do not exhibit a structural transition on lowering of the temperature, whereas alloys with x{<=}15 at% Tin and y{<=}16 at% Indium transform martensitically. The structural transition temperatures increase linearly with decreasing Tin or Indium content. The crystal structures of the low temperature martensite are modulated as well as unmodulated. Alloys with compositions close to stoichiometry are dominated by ferromagnetic interactions, whereas those close to the binary composition Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 50} order antiferromagnetically. Ferromagnetic order and structural instability coexist in a narrow composition range between 13 at%{<=}x{<=}15 at% and 15 at%{<=}x{<=}16 at% for Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 50-x}Sn{sub x} and Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 50-y}In{sub y} respectively. As a consequence, interesting magnetoelastic effects are observed. The Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 34}In{sub 16} alloy shows a magnetic field-induced structural transition, whereby application of an external magnetic field in the martensitic state stabilizes the high temperature L2{sub 1} structure. Evidence for this was given by neutron diffraction experiments in external magnetic fields. Moreover, the structural transition temperatures of this alloy show large magnetic field dependencies. By use of calorimetry, M(T), and strain measurements, changes in M{sub s} up to -11 K/Tesla are observed. Such large values have, until now, not been observed in Heusler alloys. Since during transformation the volume changes reversibly, magnetic field-induced strains of about

Anomalous Hall effect in ion-beam sputtered Co2FeAl full Heusler alloy thin films

Science.gov (United States)

Husain, Sajid; Kumar, Ankit; Akansel, Serkan; Svedlindh, Peter; Chaudhary, Sujeet

2017-11-01

Investigations of temperature dependent anomalous Hall effect and longitudinal resistivity in Co2FeAl (CFA) thin films grown on Si(1 0 0) at different substrate temperature Ts are reported. The scaling of the anomalous Hall conductivity (AHC) and the associated phenomenological mechanisms (intrinsic and extrinsic) are analyzed vis-à-vis influence of Ts. The intrinsic contribution to AHC is found to be dominating over the extrinsic one. The appearance of a resistivity minimum at low temperature necessitates the inclusion of quantum corrections on account of weak localization and electron-electron scattering effects whose strength reduces with increase in Ts. The study establishes that the optimization of Ts plays an important role in the improvement of atomic ordering which indicates the higher strength of spin-orbit coupling and leads to the dominant intrinsic contribution to AHC in these CFA full Heusler alloy thin films.

Magnetic and magnetocaloric properties of martensitic Ni2Mn1.4Sn0.6 Heusler alloy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Chernenko, Volodymyr A.; Barandiarán, Jose M.; Rodriguez Fernández, Jesus; Rojas, Daniel P.; Gutiérrez, Jon; Lázpita, Patricia; Orue, Iñaki

2012-01-01

The evolutions of magnetic properties at low temperatures and the influence of magnetic field on the temperature dependence of specific heat in martensitic Ni 2 Mn 1.4 Sn 0.6 Heusler alloy are studied. The frequency-dependent blocking temperature and considerable exchange bias below it are measured in the martensitic phase. From the analysis of the specific heat curves under magnetic field, a large inverse magnetocaloric effect manifested as the magnetic field induced rise of isothermal magnetic entropy and/or magnetic field induced adiabatic temperature decrease in the vicinity of the reverse magnetostructural transformation and a significant value of the conventional magnetocaloric effect at the Curie temperature are obtained. The Debye temperature and electronic coefficient equal to Θ D =310±2 K and γ= 16.6±0.3 mJ/K 2 mol, respectively, do not depend on the magnetic field.

Investigation of multifunctional properties of Mn{sub 50}Ni{sub 40−x}Co{sub x}Sn{sub 10} (x = 0–6) Heusler alloys

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Sharma, Jyoti; Suresh, K.G., E-mail: suresh@phy.iitb.ac.in

2015-01-25

Highlights: • Mn{sub 50}Ni{sub 40−x}Co{sub x}Sn{sub 10} Heusler alloys exhibit multifunctional properties. • Co doping results decrease in martensitic transition temperature and increase in T{sub C}{sup A}. • Ferromagnetic coupling increases with increase in Co concentration. • Large positive ΔS{sub M} of 10.5 J/kg K and large RCP of 125 J/kg was obtained for x = 1. • Large exchange bias field of 833 Oe was observed for Mn{sub 50}Ni{sub 39}Co{sub 1}Sn{sub 10} alloy. - Abstract: A series of Co doped Mn{sub 50}Ni{sub 40−x}Co{sub x}Sn{sub 10} (x = 0, 1, 2, 2.5, 3, 4 and 6) Heusler alloys has been investigated for their structural, magnetic, magnetocaloric and exchange bias properties. The martensitic transition temperatures are found to decrease with the increase in Co concentration due to the decrease in valence electron concentration (e/a ratio). The Curie temperature of austenite phase increases significantly with increasing Co concentration. A large positive magnetic entropy change (ΔS{sub M}) of 8.6 and 10.5 J/kg K, for a magnetic field change of 50 kOe is observed for x = 0 and 1 alloys, and ΔS{sub M} values decreases for higher Co concentrations. The relative cooling power shows a monotonic increase with the increase in Co concentration. Large exchange bias fields of 920 Oe and 833 Oe have been observed in the alloys with compositions x = 0 and 1, after field cooling in presence of 10 kOe. The unidirectional anisotropy arising at the interface between the frustrated and ferromagnetic phases is responsible for the large exchange bias observed in these alloys. With increase in Co, the magnetically frustrated phase diminishes in strength, giving rise to a decrease in the exchange bias effect for larger Co concentration. The exchange bias fields observed for compositions x = 0 and 1, in the present case are larger than that reported for Co doped Ni–Mn–Z (Z = Sn, Sb, and Ga) alloys. Temperature and cooling field dependence of the exchange bias

Half-metallic ferromagnetic features in d{sup 0} quaternary-Heusler compounds KCaCF and KCaCCl: A first-principles description

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Du, Jiangtao [Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350 (China); Dong, Shengjie [Department of Physics, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin 300387 (China); Lu, Yi-Lin [Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350 (China); Zhao, Hui [Department of Physics, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin 300387 (China); Feng, Liefeng, E-mail: fengliefeng@tju.edu.cn [Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350 (China); Wang, L.Y. [Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350 (China)

2017-04-15

The electronic structures and magnetic properties of quaternary Heusler alloys KCaCF and KCaCCl have been analyzed by means of first-principles calculations on the basis of density functional theory. We found that type-3 structure is the most stable configuration where C occupies (0, 0, 0) site, K (0.25, 0.25, 0.25), F/Cl (0.5, 0.5, 0.5), and Ca (0.75, 0.75, 0.75). Type-1 arrangement is the metastable structure in which K, Ca, C, and X occupy (0, 0, 0), (0.25, 0.25, 0.25), (0.5, 0.5, 0.5), and (0.75, 0.75, 0.75) sites, respectively. Both of them are half metals with equilibrium volume. The spin polarization is predominantly from C 2p states. With the variation of the lattice constant, spin-gapless semiconducting characteristic is achieved for type-1 KCaCCl as volume increases. - Highlights: • KCaCX (X=F and Cl) alloys with quaternary-Heusler structure were designed. • They exhibit a half-metallic ferromagnetic behavior at equilibrium lattice parameter. • The spin polarization is mainly from the partially-filled p state and p-d interaction. • KCaCCl can become spin-gapless semiconductor with the variation of lattice parameter.

Design of Fatigue Resistant Heusler-strengthened PdTi-based Shape Memory Alloys for Biomedical Applications

Science.gov (United States)

Frankel, Dana J.

The development of non-surgical transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) techniques, which utilize collapsible artificial heart valves with shape memory alloy (SMA)-based frames, pushes performance requirements for biomedical SMAs beyond those for well-established vascular stent applications. Fatigue life for these devices must extend into the ultra-high cycle fatigue (UHCF) regime (>600M cycles) with zero probability of failure predicted at applied strain levels. High rates of Ni-hypersensitivity raise biocompatibility concerns, driving the development of low-Ni and Ni-free SMAs. This work focuses on the development of biocompatible, precipitation-strengthened, fatigue-resistant PdTi-based SMAs for biomedical applications. Functional and structural fatigue are both manifestations of cyclic instability resulting in accumulation of slip and eventual structural damage. While functional fatigue is easily experimentally evaluated, structural fatigue is more difficult to measure without the proper equipment. Therefore, in this work a theoretical approach using a model well validated in steels is utilized to investigate structural fatigue behavior in NiTi in the UHCF regime, while low cycle functional fatigue is evaluated in order to monitor the core phenomena of the cyclic instability. Results from fatigue simulations modeling crack nucleation at non-metallic inclusions in commercial NiTi underscore the importance of increasing yield strength for UHCF performance. Controlled precipitation of nanoscale, low-misfit, L21 Heusler aluminides can provide effective strengthening. Phase relations, precipitation kinetics, transformation temperature, transformation strain, cyclic stability, and mechanical properties are characterized in both Ni-free (Pd,Fe)(Ti,Al) and low-Ni high-strength "hybrid" (Pd,Ni)(Ti,Zr,Al) systems. Atom probe tomography is employed to measure phase compositions and particle sizes used to calibrate LSW models for coarsening kinetics and Gibbs

Evolution of phase transformation and magnetic properties with Fe content in Ni55-x Fe x Mn20Ga25 Heusler alloys

Science.gov (United States)

Zhang, Yuanlei; Li, Zhe; He, Xijia; Huang, Yinsheng; Xu, Kun; Jing, Chao

2018-02-01

A series of Ni55-x Fe x Mn20Ga25 (0  ⩽  x  ⩽  5) Heusler alloys was prepared to investigate their phase transitions and magnetic properties. At room temperature, these alloys present various crystal structures, and the unit cell volume enlarges with increase of Fe content in both austenite and martensite. Multiple magneto-structural transformations were observed in the parent alloy (x  =  0). In the process of cooling, it undergoes martensitic transformation (MT) from L21-type paramagnetic austenite to L10-type ferromagnetic martensite, accompanying an intermartensitic transformation (IMT, 7M  →  L10). By establishing a detailed phase diagram, we found that both MT and IMT shift to lower temperature simultaneously, while the ferromagnetic (FM) transition of austenite moves to higher temperature as Fe increases. With the further increase of Fe content beyond a critical value, both the IMT and the FM transitions split off from MT, and the former follows with the transforming sequence of 7M  →  5M. Based on the experimental data, some key magnetic parameters have been obtained in this system. The calculated magnetocrystalline anisotropy constant ({{K}1} ) of martensite quickly increases as Fe increases, and then it almost reaches a saturated value (~5.5  ×  105 J m-3) for the alloys with x  >  3. However, the spontaneous magnetic moment ({μs} ) attains a peak value of about 4.2 μ B/f.u. in the alloy with x  =  4, which is not consistent with the linear increasing of effective magnetic moment ({μef f} ). Further magnetic measurements with hydrostatic pressure indicate that such a discrepancy could be ascribed to the competition between the magnetic exchange interaction and the volume change of unit cell governed by the dopant Fe content.

Structural, mechanical, electronic and magnetic properties of a new series of quaternary Heusler alloys CoFeMnZ (Z=Si, As, Sb): A first-principle study

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Elahmar, M.H.; Rached, H.; Rached, D. [Laboratoire des Matériaux Magnétiques, Faculté des Sciences, Université Djillali Liabès de SidiBel-Abbès, SidiBel-Abbès 22000 (Algeria); Khenata, R., E-mail: khenata_rabah@yahoo.fr [Laboratoire de Physique Quantique et de Modélisation Mathématique, Université de Mascara, 29000 (Algeria); Murtaza, G. [Materials Modeling Lab, Department of Physics, Islamia College Peshawar, KPK (Pakistan); Bin Omran, S. [Department of Physics and Astronomy, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh 11451 (Saudi Arabia); Ahmed, W.K. [ERU, College of Engineering, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi (United Arab Emirates)

2015-11-01

The structural, mechanical, electronic and magnetic properties of the series of Heusler alloys CoFeMnZ (Z=Si, As, and Sb) have been investigated theoretically. The objective is to seek for stable half-metallic ferromagnets materials with Curie temperatures higher than room temperature. The series of CoFeMnZ (Z=Si, As and Sb) is found to exhibit half-metallic ferromagnetism with high magnetic moment and the localized moment in these magnetic compounds resides at the Mn atom. It has been observed that all our compounds have high Curie temperatures with high spin polarizations. - Highlights: • Density functional calculations for CoFeMnZ (Z=Si, As, Sb) compounds are performed. • Half-metallic ferromagnetism in CoFeMnZ (Z=Si, As, Sb) compounds is established. • The magnetic and mechanical properties for CoFeMnZ (Z=As, Sb) are studied for the first time. • The studied compounds possess high Curie temperatures with high spin polarizations.

Hall effect and the magnetotransport properties of Co2MnSi1-xAlx Heusler alloys

Science.gov (United States)

Prestigiacomo, Joseph C.; Young, David P.; Adams, Philip W.; Stadler, Shane

2014-01-01

We have investigated the transport properties of the quaternary Heusler alloys Co2MnSi1-xAlx (0≤x≤1), which have been theoretically predicted to develop a half-metallic band structure as x →0. Resistivity versus temperature measurements as a function of Al concentration (x) revealed a systematic reduction in the residual resistivity ratio as well as a transition from weakly localized to half-metallic conduction as x →0. From measurements of the ordinary and anomalous Hall effects, the charge carrier concentration was found to increase, while the anomalous Hall coefficient decreased by nearly an order of magnitude with each sample as x →0 (Δx=0.25.). Scaling of the anomalous Hall effect with longitudinal resistivity reveals that both the skew-scattering and intrinsic contributions grow quickly as x →1, indicating that disorder and band-structure effects cause the large anomalous Hall effect magnitudes observed for Co2MnAl.

Thermal and electronic charge transport in bulk nanostructured Zr0.25Hf0.75NiSn composites with full-Heusler inclusions

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Makongo, Julien P.A.; Misra, Dinesh K.; Salvador, James R.; Takas, Nathan J.; Wang, Guoyu; Shabetai, Michael R.; Pant, Aditya; Paudel, Pravin; Uher, Ctirad; Stokes, Kevin L.; Poudeu, Pierre F.P.

2011-01-01

Bulk Zr 0.25 Hf 075 NiSn half-Heusler (HH) nanocomposites containing various mole fractions of full-Heusler (FH) inclusions were prepared by solid state reaction of pre-synthesized HH alloy with elemental Ni at 1073 K. The microstructures of spark plasma sintered specimens of the HH/FH nanocomposites were investigated using transmission electron microscopy and their thermoelectric properties were measured from 300 K to 775 K. The formation of coherent FH inclusions into the HH matrix arises from solid-state Ni diffusion into vacant sites of the HH structure. HH(1-y)/FH(y) composites with mole fraction of FH inclusions below the percolation threshold, y∼0.2, show increased electrical conductivity, reduced Seebeck coefficient and increased total thermal conductivity arising from gradual increase in the carrier concentration for composites. A drastic reduction (∼55%) in κ l was observed for the composite with y=0.6 and is attributed to enhanced phonon scattering due to mass fluctuations between FH and HH, and high density of HH/FH interfaces. - Graphical abstract: Large reduction in the lattice thermal conductivity of bulk nanostructured half-Heusler/full-Heusler (Zr 0.25 Hf 075 NiSn/ Zr 0.25 Hf 075 Ni 2 Sn) composites, obtained by solid-state diffusion at 1073 K of elemental Ni into vacant sites of the half-Heusler structure, arising from the formation of regions of spinodally decomposed HH and FH phases with a spatial composition modulation of ∼2 nm. Highlights: → Bulk composites from solid state transformation of half-Heusler matrix through Ni diffusion. → Formation of coherent phase boundaries between half-Heusler matrix and full-Heusler inclusion. → Alteration of thermal and electronic transports with increasing full-Heusler inclusion. → Enhanced phonon scattering at half-Heusler/ full-Heusler phase boundaries.

Vacancy induced half-metallicity in half-Heusler semiconductors

KAUST Repository

Zhu, Zhiyong; Cheng, Yingchun; Schwingenschlö gl, Udo

2011-01-01

First-principles calculations are performed to investigate the effect of vacancies on the electronic structure and magnetic properties of the two prototypical half-Heusler semiconductors NiTiSn and CoTiSb. The spin degeneracy of the host materials

Magnetic and magnetocaloric properties of Ni-Mn-Cr-Sn Heusler alloys under the effects of hydrostatic pressure

Science.gov (United States)

Pandey, Sudip; Us Saleheen, Ahmad; Quetz, Abdiel; Chen, Jing-Han; Aryal, Anil; Dubenko, Igor; Stadler, Shane; Ali, Naushad

2018-05-01

The magnetic, thermal, and magnetocaloric properties of Ni45Mn43CrSn11 Heusler alloy have been investigated using differential scanning calorimetry and magnetization with hydrostatic pressure measurements. A shift in the martensitic transition temperature (TM) to higher temperatures was observed with the application of pressure. The application of pressure stabilizes the martensitic state and demonstrated that pressure can be a parameter used to control and tune the martensitic transition temperature (the temperature where the largest magnetocaloric effect is observed). The magnetic entropy change significantly decreases from 33 J/kg K to 16 J/kg K under the application of a hydrostatic pressure of 0.95 GPa. The critical field of the direct metamagnetic transition increases, whereas the initial susceptibility (dM/dH) in the low magnetic field region drastically decreases with increasing pressure. The relevant parameters that affect the magnetocaloric properties are discussed.

Suppression of the ferromagnetic order in the Heusler alloy Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 35}In{sub 15} by hydrostatic pressure

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Salazar Mejía, C., E-mail: Catalina.Salazar@cpfs.mpg.de; Mydeen, K.; Naumov, P.; Medvedev, S. A.; Wang, C.; Schwarz, U.; Felser, C.; Nicklas, M., E-mail: nicklas@cpfs.mpg.de [Max Planck Institute for Chemical Physics of Solids, Nöthnitzer Str. 40, 01187 Dresden (Germany); Hanfland, M. [ESRF, BP220, 38043 Grenoble (France); Nayak, A. K. [Max Planck Institute for Chemical Physics of Solids, Nöthnitzer Str. 40, 01187 Dresden (Germany); Max Planck Institute of Microstructure Physics, Weinberg 2, 06120 Halle (Germany)

2016-06-27

We report on the effect of hydrostatic pressure on the magnetic and structural properties of the shape-memory Heusler alloy Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 35}In{sub 15}. Magnetization and x-ray diffraction experiments were performed at hydrostatic pressures up to 5 GPa using diamond anvil cells. Pressure stabilizes the martensitic phase, shifting the martensitic transition to higher temperatures, and suppresses the ferromagnetic austenitic phase. Above 3 GPa, where the martensitic-transition temperature approaches the Curie temperature in the austenite, the magnetization shows no longer indications of ferromagnetic ordering. We further find an extended temperature region with a mixture of martensite and austenite phases, which directly relates to the magnetic properties.

Observation of strong ferromagnetism in the half-Heusler compound CoTiSb system

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Sedeek, K., E-mail: KamiliaSedeek@yahoo.com; Hantour, H.; Makram, N.; Said, Sh. A.

2016-06-01

not obey the 18 valence electron/unit cell category of zero magnetic moment. Electronic structure calculations of the prepared stable multiphases CoTiSb is necessary to understand the origin of the detected strong half-metallic ferromagnetic behavior. - Highlights: • Synthesis by direct fusion yields stable multiphases CoTiSb half-Heusler alloy. • A mixture of well-ordered and distorted lattice planes characterizes the alloy. • De-mixing into multiphases altered the semiconducting CoTiSb to strong ferromagnet. • The alloy undergoes more than two ferromagnetic transitions with T{sub c} above 900 °K. • A proposed magnetic field diagram is given for the multiphases CoTiSb nano-system.

First-principles study of half-metallic properties in RbCaNZ (Z = O, S, and Se) quaternary Heusler compounds

Science.gov (United States)

Rezaei, S.; Ahmadian, F.

2018-06-01

On the basis of first principles calculations, the electronic structures and magnetic properties of quaternary Heusler alloys RbCaNZ (Z = O, S, and Se) were studied. The negative formation energies indicated that all these compounds were thermodynamically stable and thus may be experimentally synthesized at appropriate conditions in the future. The results showed that YI structure was the most favorable configuration among the three possible structures. All compounds were found to be half-metallic ferromagnets. The characteristic of energy bands and origin of half-metallicity were also verified. The total magnetic moments of RbCaNZ (Z = O, S, and Se) compounds were obtained 2μB per formula unit, which were in an agreement with Slater-Pauling rule (Mtot = 12 - Ztot). Half-metallicity was preserved at ranges of 5.06-8.36 Å, 5.96-8.81 Å, and 6.13-8.73 Å for RbCaNO, RbCaNS, and RbCaNSe compounds, respectively, which show that these quaternary Heusler compounds may be potential candidates in spintronic applications.

First-principles study on the thermodynamic stability, magnetism, and half-metallicity of full-Heusler alloy Ti{sub 2}FeGe (001) surface

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Hu, Yan; Zhang, Jian-Min, E-mail: jmzhang@snnu.edu.cn

2017-05-10

For the Ti{sub 2}FeGe Heusler alloy, the surface stability, electronic and magnetic properties of the various (001) surfaces have been studied by using first-principles calculations. The TiGe termination is the most stable one while the GeGe* termination is the most unstable one. Both the density of states (DOS) and atomic magnetic moments (AMMs) of the central layers are similar to the corresponding bulk characters due to no influence of surface effect as we expected. The TiGe termination has the highest spin polarization 96.67%, followed by the TiFe (67.17%), GeGe* (66.51%) and FeFe* terminations (62.02%). The TiTi* terminations has the lowest spin polarization 61.31%. The magnetic moments for atoms on the surfaces and subsurfaces of these terminations are different from the bulk case. - Highlights: • TiGe termination is the most stable while GeGe* termination is the most unstable. • TiGe termination has the highest spin polarization followed by TiFe, GeGe*, FeFe* and TiTi*. • Atomic magnetic moments at the (001) surfaces are greatly different from the bulk values.

Growth dependent magnetization reversal in Co2MnAl full Heusler alloy thin films

Science.gov (United States)

Barwal, Vineet; Husain, Sajid; Behera, Nilamani; Goyat, Ekta; Chaudhary, Sujeet

2018-02-01

Angular dependent magnetization reversal has been investigated in Co2MnAl (CMA) full Heusler alloy thin films grown on Si(100) at different growth temperatures (Ts) by DC-magnetron sputtering. An M -shaped curve is observed in the in-plane angular (0°-360°) dependent coercivity (ADC) by magneto-optical Kerr effect measurements. The dependence of the magnetization reversal on Ts is investigated in detail to bring out the structure-property correlation with regards to ADC in these polycrystalline CMA thin films. This magnetization reversal ( M -shaped ADC behavior) is well described by the two-phase model, which is a combination of Kondorsky (domain wall motion) and Stoner Wohlfarth (coherent rotation) models. In this model, magnetization reversal starts with depinning of domain walls, with their gradual displacement explained by the Kondorsky model, and at a higher field (when the domain walls merge), the system follows coherent rotation before reaching its saturation following the Stoner Wohlfarth model. Further, the analysis of angular dependent squareness ratio (Mr/Ms) indicates that our films clearly exhibited twofold uniaxial anisotropy, which is related to self-steering effect arising due to the obliquely incident flux during the film-growth.

Observation of giant exchange bias in bulk Mn{sub 50}Ni{sub 42}Sn{sub 8} Heusler alloy

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Sharma, Jyoti; Suresh, K. G., E-mail: suresh@iitb.ac.in [Magnetic Materials Laboratory, Department of Physics, Indian institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400076 (India)

2015-02-16

We report a giant exchange bias (EB) field of 3520 Oe in bulk Mn{sub 50}Ni{sub 42}Sn{sub 8} Heusler alloy. The low temperature magnetic state of the martensite phase has been studied by DC magnetization and AC susceptibility measurements. Frequency dependence of spin freezing temperature (T{sub f}) on critical slowing down relation and observation of memory effect in zero field cooling mode confirms the super spin glass (SSG) phase at low temperatures. Large EB is attributed to the strong exchange coupling between the SSG clusters formed by small regions of ferromagnetic order embedded in an antiferromagnetic (AFM) matrix. The temperature and cooling field dependence of EB have been studied and related to the change in unidirectional anisotropy at SSG/AFM interface. The training effect also corroborates with the presence of frozen (SSG) moments at the interface and their role in EB.

Growth and transport properties of thin Co-based Heusler films; Wachstum und Transporteigenschaften duenner Co-basierter Heusler-Filme

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Schneider, Horst

2010-07-01

half-metallic Heusler compounds. The availableness of these high quality quaternary alloy films allowed the systematic investigation of their electronic properties. Band structure calculations predict that the substitution of Mn by Fe leads to a shift of the Fermi energy over the minority energy gap, whereas the density of states remains nearly unchanged. The corresponding changes in the topology of the Fermi surface could be tested by electronic transport measurements. This is particularly obvious in the normal Hall effect. Here a transition from a hole-like charge transport in Co{sub 2}MnSi to an electron-like transport in Co{sub 2}FeSi could be demonstrated. This is in accordance with the corresponding band structure calculations. Additionally, with these samples comparative XMCD experiments were performed. The densities of states reconstructed from these spectra show the expected shift of the Fermi energy as well. Furthermore, the behavior of the anomalous Hall effect was studied. Here it could be seen that the effect is influenced by two mechanisms: On the one hand an intrinsic contribution, caused by the topology of the Fermi surface and on the other hand by temperature dependent impurity scattering. These two effects have an opposing influence on the anomalous Hall effect. This can lead to an observable sign reversal of the anomalous contribution. This behavior has been predicted just recently and was in this work systematically investigated for the first time for Heusler compounds. (orig.)

Large tunnel magnetoresistance at room temperature with a Co2FeAl full-Heusler alloy electrode

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Okamura, S.; Miyazaki, A.; Sugimoto, S.; Tezuka, N.; Inomata, K.

2005-01-01

Magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJs) with a Co 2 FeAl Heusler alloy electrode are fabricated by the deposition of the film using an ultrahigh vacuum sputtering system followed by photolithography and Ar ion etching. A tunnel magnetoresistance (TMR) of 47% at room temperature (RT) are obtained in a stack of Co 2 FeAl/Al-O x /Co 75 Fe 25 magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) fabricated on a thermally oxidized Si substrate despite the A2 type atomic site disorder for Co 2 FeAl. There is no increase of TMR in MTJs with the B2 type Co 2 FeAl, which is prepared by the deposition on a heated substrate. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) depth profiles in Co 2 FeAl single layer films reveal that Al atoms in Co 2 FeAl are oxidized preferentially at the surfaces. On the other hand, at the interfaces in Co 2 FeAl/Al-O x /Co 75 Fe 25 MTJs, the ferromagnetic layers are hardly oxidized during plasma oxidation for a formation of Al oxide barriers

Magnetocaloric effect and multifunctional properties of Ni-Mn-based Heusler alloys

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Dubenko, Igor, E-mail: igor_doubenko@yahoo.com [Department of Physics, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL 62901 (United States); Samanta, Tapas; Kumar Pathak, Arjun [Department of Physics, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL 62901 (United States); Kazakov, Alexandr; Prudnikov, Valerii [Faculty of Physics, Moscow State University, Vorob' evy Gory, 11999I Moscow (Russian Federation); Stadler, Shane [Department of Physics and Astronomy, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803 (United States); Granovsky, Alexander [Faculty of Physics, Moscow State University, Vorob' evy Gory, 11999I Moscow (Russian Federation); IKERBASQUE, The Basque Foundation for Science, 48011 Bilbao (Spain); Departamento de Fisica de Materiales, Facultad de Quimica, Universidad del Pais Vasco, Paseo M. de Lardizabal 3, 20018 Donostia - San Sebastian (Spain); Zhukov, Arcady [IKERBASQUE, The Basque Foundation for Science, 48011 Bilbao (Spain); Departamento de Fisica de Materiales, Facultad de Quimica, Universidad del Pais Vasco, Paseo M. de Lardizabal 3, 20018 Donostia - San Sebastian (Spain); Ali, Naushad [Department of Physics, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL 62901 (United States)

2012-10-15

The studies of magnetocaloric properties, phase transitions, and phenomena related to magnetic heterogeneity in the vicinity of the martensitic transition (MT) in Ni-Mn-In and Ni-Mn-Ga off-stoichiometric Heusler alloys are summarized. The crystal structure, magnetocaloric effect (MCE), and magnetotransport properties were studied for the following alloys: Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 50-x}In{sub x}, Ni{sub 50-x}Co{sub x}Mn{sub 35}In{sub 15}, Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 35-x}Co{sub x}In{sub 15}, Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 35}In{sub 14}Z (Z=Al, Ge), Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 35}In{sub 15-x}Si{sub x}, Ni{sub 50-x}Co{sub x}Mn{sub 25+y}Ga{sub 25-y}, and Ni{sub 50-x}Co{sub x}Mn{sub 32-y}FeyGa{sub 18}. It was found that the magnetic entropy change, {Delta}S, associated with the inverse MCE in the vicinity of the temperature of the magneto-structural transition, TM, persists in a range of (125-5) J/(kg K) for a magnetic field change {Delta}H=5 T. The corresponding temperature varies with composition from 143 to 400 K. The MT in Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 50-x}In{sub x} (x=13.5) results in a transition between two paramagnetic states. Associated with the paramagnetic austenite-paramagnetic martensite transition {Delta}S=24 J/(kg K) was detected for {Delta}H=5 T at T=350 K. The variation in composition of Ni{sub 2}MnGa can drastically change the magnetic state of the martensitic phase below and in the vicinity of TM. The presence of the martensitic phase with magnetic moment much smaller than that in the austenitic phase above TM leads to the large inverse MCE in the Ni{sub 42}Co{sub 8}Mn{sub 32-y}FeyGa{sub 18} system. The adiabatic change of temperature ({Delta}T{sub ad}) in the vicinity of TC and TM of Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 35}In{sub 15} and Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 35}In{sub 14}Z (Z=Al, Ge) was found to be {Delta}T{sub ad}=-2 K and 2 K for {Delta}H=1.8 T, respectively. It was observed that |{Delta}T{sub ad}| Almost-Equal-To 1 K for {Delta}H=1 T for both types of transitions. The results on resistivity, magnetoresistance, Hall

Production of polarizing Heusler crystals

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Courtois, P. [Institut Max von Laue - Paul Langevin (ILL), 38 - Grenoble (France)

1999-11-01

Heusler crystals simultaneously produce monochromatized and polarized neutrons. However, in the past, it was difficult to produce these crystals. In collaboration with the neutron scattering group of CEA Grenoble and LLB Saclay, the production of high quality Heusler crystals has been established at ILL. (author) 3 refs., 2 figs., 1 tab.

The structure, magnetism, and electrical-transport properties of the Heusler alloys Co2Cr1-xFexAl (x=0.2-0.6)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zhang Ming; Wolf, Anne L.; Zhang, L.; Tegus, O.; Brueck, Ekkes; Wu Guangheng; Boer, Frank R. de

2005-01-01

We synthesize the polycrystalline Heusler compounds Co 2 Cr 1-x Fe x Al (x=0.2-0.6). The x-ray diffraction patterns show A2 structure rather than L2 1 structure. The magnetic moment and the Curie temperature increase with increasing x. The electrical resistivity characterizes the Co 2 Cr 1-x Fe x Al compounds to be not typical metals and the temperature dependence of the resistivity changes from metallic to semiconductinglike behavior with increasing Cr concentrations. We attribute the fact, which we observe for most of the compounds smaller magnetic moments than the theoretical values and the low magnetoresistance in these alloys, to the considerably high level of Co-(Cr, Fe)-type disorder

Effect of NiAl underlayer and spacer on magnetoresistance of current-perpendicular-to-plane spin valves using Co2Mn(Ga0.5Sn0.5) Heusler alloy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hase, N.; Nakatani, T.M.; Kasai, S.; Takahashi, Y.K.; Furubayashi, T.; Hono, K.

2012-01-01

We investigated the effect of a NiAl underlayer and spacer on magnetoresistive (MR) properties in current-perpendicular-to-plane spin valves (CPP-SVs) using Co 2 Mn(Ga 0.5 Sn 0.5 ) (CMGS) Heusler alloy ferromagnetic layers. The usage of a NiAl underlayer allowed a high temperature annealing for the L2 1 ordering of the bottom CMGS layer, giving rise to a MR ratio of 10.2% at room temperature. We found that the usage of a NiAl spacer layer also improved the tolerance of the multilayer structure against thermal delamination, which allowed annealing to induce the L2 1 structure in both the bottom and top CMGS layers. However, the short spin diffusion length of NiAl resulted in a lower MR ratio compared to that obtained using a Ag spacer. Transmission electron microscopy of the multilayer structure of CPP-SVs showed that the atomically flat layered structure was maintained after the annealing. - Highlights: → CPP spin valves using Co 2 Mn(Ga 0.5 Sn 0.5 ) ferromagnetic layers with a new underlayer material. → NiAl underlayer and spacer improve the thermal tolerance of the spin valve structure. → NiAl underlayer improves MR ratio compared to Ag because of higher annealing temperature. → NiAl spacer degrades MR ratios compared to Ag because of short spin diffusion length. → Potential of heat resistant underlayer and spacer layer for CPP-SV using Heusler alloy.

The effect of Pd on martensitic transformation and magnetic properties for Ni50Mn38−xPdxSn12Heusler alloys

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

C. Jing

2016-05-01

Full Text Available In the past decade, Mn rich Ni-Mn based alloys have attained considerable attention due to their abundant physics and potential application as multifunctional materials. In this paper, polycrystalline Ni50Mn38−xPdxSn12 (x = 0, 2, 4, 6 Heusler alloys have been prepared, and the martensitic phase transformation (MPT together with the shape memory effect and the magnetocaloric effect has been investigated. The experimental result indicates that the MPT evidently shifts to a lower temperature with increase of Pd substitution for Mn atoms, which can be attributed to the weakness of the hybridization between the Ni atom and excess Mn on the Sn site rather than the electron concentration. The physics properties study focused on the sample of Ni50Mn34Pd4Sn12 shows a good two-way shape memory behavior, and the maximum value of strain Δ L/L reaches about 0.13% during the MPT. The small of both entropy change Δ ST and magnetostrain can be ascribed to the inconspicuous influence of magnetic field induced MPT.

Nanoscale structural heterogeneity in Ni-rich half-Heusler TiNiSn

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Douglas, Jason E.; Pollock, Tresa M.; Chater, Philip A.; Brown, Craig M.; Seshadri, Ram

2014-01-01

The structural implications of excess Ni in the TiNiSn half-Heusler compound are examined through a combination of synchrotron x-ray and neutron scattering studies, in conjunction with first principles density functional theory calculations on supercells. Despite the phase diagram suggesting that TiNiSn is a line compound with no solid solution, for small x in TiNi 1+x Sn there is indeed an appearance—from careful analysis of the scattering—of some solubility, with the excess Ni occupying the interstitial tetrahedral site in the half-Heusler structure. The analysis performed here would point to the excess Ni not being statistically distributed, but rather occurring as coherent nanoclusters. First principles calculations of energetics, carried out using supercells, support a scenario of Ni interstitials clustering, rather than a statistical distribution.

High performance p-type half-Heusler thermoelectric materials

Science.gov (United States)

Yu, Junjie; Xia, Kaiyang; Zhao, Xinbing; Zhu, Tiejun

2018-03-01

Half-Heusler compounds, which possess robust mechanical strength, good high temperature thermal stability and multifaceted physical properties, have been verified as a class of promising thermoelectric materials. During the last two decades, great progress has been made in half-Heusler thermoelectrics. In this review, we summarize some representative work of p-type half-Heusler materials, the thermoelectric performance of which has been remarkably enhanced in recent years. We introduce the features of the crystal and electronic structures of half-Heusler compounds, and successful strategies for optimizing electrical and thermal transport in the p-type RFeSb (R  =  V, Nb, Ta) and MCoSb (M  =  Ti, Zr, Hf) based systems, including band engineering, the formation of solid solutions and hierarchical phonon scattering. The outlook for future research directions of half-Heusler thermoelectrics is also presented.

Effects of Rh on the thermoelectric performance of the p-type Zr0.5Hf0.5Co1-xRhxSb0.99Sn0.01 half-Heusler alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Maji, Pramathesh; Takas, Nathan J.; Misra, Dinesh K.; Gabrisch, Heike; Stokes, Kevin; Poudeu, Pierre F.P.

2010-01-01

We show that Rh substitution at the Co site in Zr 0.5 Hf 0.5 Co 1-x Rh x Sb 0.99 Sn 0.01 (0≤x≤1) half-Heusler alloys strongly reduces the thermal conductivity with a simultaneous, significant improvement of the power factor of the materials. Thermoelectric properties of hot-pressed pellets of several compositions with various Rh concentrations were investigated in the temperature range from 300 to 775 K. The Rh 'free' composition shows n-type conduction, while Rh substitution at the Co site drives the system to p-type semiconducting behavior. The lattice thermal conductivity of Zr 0.5 Hf 0.5 Co 1-x Rh x Sb 0.99 Sn 0.01 alloys rapidly decreased with increasing Rh concentration and lattice thermal conductivity as low as 3.7 W/m*K was obtained at 300 K for Zr 0.5 Hf 0.5 RhSb 0.99 Sn 0.01 . The drastic reduction of the lattice thermal conductivity is attributed to mass fluctuation induced by the Rh substitution at the Co site, as well as enhanced phonon scattering at grain boundaries due to the small grain size of the synthesized materials. - Graphical abstract: Significant reduction of the lattice thermal conductivity with increasing Rh concentration in the p-type Zr 0.5 Hf 0.5 Co 1-x Rh x Sb 0.99 Sn 0.01 half-Heusler materials prepared by solid state reaction at 1173 K.

Electron transport in all-Heusler Co2CrSi/Cu2CrAl/Co2CrSi device, based on ab-initio NEGF calculations

Science.gov (United States)

Mikaeilzadeh, L.; Pirgholi, M.; Tavana, A.

2018-05-01

Based on the ab-initio non-equilibrium Green's function (NEGF) formalism based on the density functional theory (DFT), we have studied the electron transport in the all-Heusler device Co2CrSi/Cu2CrAl/Co2CrSi. Results show that the calculated transmission spectra is very sensitive to the structural parameters and the interface. Also, we obtain a range for the thickness of the spacer layer for which the MR effect is optimum. Calculations also show a perfect GMR effect in this device.

Strain and order-parameter coupling in Ni-Mn-Ga Heusler alloys from resonant ultrasound spectroscopy

Science.gov (United States)

Salazar Mejía, C.; Born, N.-O.; Schiemer, J. A.; Felser, C.; Carpenter, M. A.; Nicklas, M.

2018-03-01

Resonant ultrasound spectroscopy and magnetic susceptibility experiments have been used to characterize strain coupling phenomena associated with structural and magnetic properties of the shape-memory Heusler alloy series Ni50 +xMn25 -xGa25 (x =0 , 2.5, 5.0, and 7.5). All samples exhibit a martensitic transformation at temperature TM and ferromagnetic ordering at temperature TC, while the pure end member (x =0 ) also has a premartensitic transition at TP M, giving four different scenarios: TC>TP M>TM,TC>TM without premartensitic transition, TC≈TM , and TC

Spin transport at high temperatures in epitaxial Heusler alloy/n-GaAs lateral spin valves

Science.gov (United States)

Peterson, Timothy A.; Christie, Kevin D.; Patel, Sahil J.; Crowell, Paul A.; Palmstrøm, Chris J.

2015-03-01

We report on electrical injection and detection of spin accumulation in ferromagnet/ n-GaAs lateral spin-valve devices, observed up to and above room temperature. The ferromagnet in these measurements is the Heusler alloy Co2FeSi, and the semiconductor channel is GaAs doped at 3 ×1016 cm-3. The spin signal is enhanced by operating the detection contact under forward bias. The enhancement originates from drift effects at low-temperatures and an increase of the detection efficiency at all temperatures. The detector bias dependence of the observed spin-valve signal is interpreted by taking into account the quantum well (QW) which forms in the degenerately doped region immediately behind the Schottky tunnel barrier. In particular, we believe the QW is responsible for the minority spin accumulation (majority spin current) under large forward bias. The spin diffusion length and lifetime are determined by measuring the separation dependence of the non-local spin valve signal in a family of devices patterned by electron beam lithography. A spin diffusion length of 700 nm and lifetime of 46 picoseconds are found at a temperature of 295 K. This work was supported by the NSF under DMR-1104951, the NSF MRSEC program and C-SPIN, a SRC STARNET center sponsored by MARCO and DARPA.

Thermal and magnetic hysteresis associated with martensitic and magnetic phase transformations in Ni52Mn25In16Co7 Heusler alloy

Science.gov (United States)

Madiligama, A. S. B.; Ari-Gur, P.; Ren, Y.; Koledov, V. V.; Dilmieva, E. T.; Kamantsev, A. P.; Mashirov, A. V.; Shavrov, V. G.; Gonzalez-Legarreta, L.; Grande, B. H.

2017-11-01

Ni-Mn-In-Co Heusler alloys demonstrate promising magnetocaloric performance for use as refrigerants in magnetic cooling systems with the goal of replacing the lower efficiency, eco-adverse fluid-compression technology. The largest change in entropy occurs when the applied magnetic field causes a merged structural and magnetic transformation and the associated entropy changes of the two transformations works constructively. In this study, magnetic and crystalline phase transformations were each treated separately and the effects of the application of magnetic field on thermal hystereses associated with both structural and magnetic transformations of the Ni52Mn25In16Co7 were studied. From the analysis of synchrotron diffraction data and thermomagnetic measurements, it was revealed that the alloy undergoes both structural (from cubic austenite to a mixture of 7M &5M modulated martensite) and magnetic (ferromagnetic to a low-magnetization phase) phase transformations. Thermal hysteresis is associated with both transformations, and the variation of the thermal hystereses of the magnetic and structural transformations with applied magnetic field is significantly different. Because of the differences between the hystereses loops of the two transformations, they merge only upon heating under a certain magnetic field.

Phase transitions, magnetotransport and magnetocaloric effects in a new family of quaternary Ni-Mn-In-Z Heusler alloys.

Science.gov (United States)

Kazakov, Alexander; Prudnikov, Valerii; Granovsky, Alexander; Perov, Nikolai; Dubenko, Igor; Pathak, Arjun Kumar; Samanta, Tapas; Stadler, Shane; Ali, Naushad; Zhukov, Arcady; Ilyin, Maxim; Gonzalez, Julian

2012-09-01

The magnetic, magnetotransport, and magnetocaloric properties near compound phase transitions in Ni50Mn35In14Z (Z = In, Ge, Al), and Ni48Co2Mn35In15 Heusler alloys have been studied using VSM and SQUID magnetometers (at magnetic fields (H) up to 5 T), four-probe method (at H = 0.005-1.5 T), and an adiabatic magnetocalorimeter (for H changes up to deltaH = 1.8 T), respectively. The martensitic transformation (MT) is accompanied by large magnetoresistance (up to 70%), a significant change in resistivity (up to 200%), and a sign reversal of the ordinary Hall effect coefficient, all related to a strong change in the electronic spectrum at the MT. The field dependences of the Hall resistance are complex in the vicinity of the MT, indicating a change in the relative concentrations of the austenite and martensite phases at strong fields. Negative and positive changes in adiabatic temperatures of about -2 K and +2 K have been observed in the vicinity of MT and Curie temperatures, respectively, for deltaH = 1.8 T.

Tuning martensitic transformation, large magnetoresistance and strain in Ni50-xFexMn36Sn14 Heusler alloys

Science.gov (United States)

Liao, Pan; Jing, Chao; Zheng, Dong; Li, Zhe; Kang, Baojuan; Deng, Dongmei; Cao, Shixun; Lu, Bo; Zhang, Jincang

2015-09-01

We have investigated the martensitic transformation, exchange bias, magnetoresistance (MR) and strain in Ni50-xFexMn36Sn14 (x=1, 2, 3, 4) Heusler alloys. With the increase of Fe content, the austenite phase could be stabilized with L21 structure and hence the martensitic transition shifts to a lower temperature and finally disappears. This behavior can be understood by the weakening of Ni-Mn hybridization to suppress AFM interactions and enhancement of Fe-Fe ferromagnetic exchange interactions. The same reason can account for the slight decrease of exchange bias field (HEB) with the increase of the Fe content from x=1 to 2 and the disappearance of HEB for x=3. We observed MR effect for x=3, and a maximum MR value of -52% was achieved, which can be explained by the change in the electronic structure during martensitic transformation induced by the magnetic field. In addition, a large strain of 0.207% in Ni49Fe1Mn36Sn14 was observed due to the changes of lattice parameters during the martensitic transformation induced by temperature.

Spin injection and magnetoresistance in MoS2-based tunnel junctions using Fe3Si Heusler alloy electrodes.

Science.gov (United States)

Rotjanapittayakul, Worasak; Pijitrojana, Wanchai; Archer, Thomas; Sanvito, Stefano; Prasongkit, Jariyanee

2018-03-19

Recently magnetic tunnel junctions using two-dimensional MoS 2 as nonmagnetic spacer have been fabricated, although their magnetoresistance has been reported to be quite low. This may be attributed to the use of permalloy electrodes, injecting current with a relatively small spin polarization. Here we evaluate the performance of MoS 2 -based tunnel junctions using Fe 3 Si Heusler alloy electrodes. Density functional theory and the non-equilibrium Green's function method are used to investigate the spin injection efficiency (SIE) and the magnetoresistance (MR) ratio as a function of the MoS 2 thickness. We find a maximum MR of ~300% with a SIE of about 80% for spacers comprising between 3 and 5 MoS 2 monolayers. Most importantly, both the SIE and the MR remain robust at finite bias, namely MR > 100% and SIE > 50% at 0.7 V. Our proposed materials stack thus demonstrates the possibility of developing a new generation of performing magnetic tunnel junctions with layered two-dimensional compounds as spacers.

Applications of thermodynamic calculations to Mg alloy design: Mg-Sn based alloy development

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Jung, In-Ho; Park, Woo-Jin; Ahn, Sang Ho; Kang, Dae Hoon; Kim, Nack J.

2007-01-01

Recently an Mg-Sn based alloy system has been investigated actively in order to develop new magnesium alloys which have a stable structure and good mechanical properties at high temperatures. Thermodynamic modeling of the Mg-Al-Mn-Sb-Si-Sn-Zn system was performed based on available thermodynamic, phase equilibria and phase diagram data. Using the optimized database, the phase relationships of the Mg-Sn-Al-Zn alloys with additions of Si and Sb were calculated and compared with their experimental microstructures. It is shown that the calculated results are in good agreement with experimental microstructures, which proves the applicability of thermodynamic calculations for new Mg alloy design. All calculations were performed using FactSage thermochemical software. (orig.)

Large magnetoresistance in Heusler-alloy-based epitaxial magnetic junctions with semiconducting Cu(In{sub 0.8}Ga{sub 0.2})Se{sub 2} spacer

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Kasai, S. [Research Center for Magnetic and Spintronic Materials, National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS), 1-2-1 Sengen, Tsukuba 305-0047 (Japan); Center for Emergent Matter Science, RIKEN, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako 351-0198 (Japan); Takahashi, Y. K.; Ohkubo, T. [Research Center for Magnetic and Spintronic Materials, National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS), 1-2-1 Sengen, Tsukuba 305-0047 (Japan); Cheng, P.-H.; Ikhtiar,; Mitani, S.; Hono, K. [Research Center for Magnetic and Spintronic Materials, National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS), 1-2-1 Sengen, Tsukuba 305-0047 (Japan); Graduate School of Pure and Applied Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba 305-8577 (Japan); Kondou, K. [Center for Emergent Matter Science, RIKEN, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako 351-0198 (Japan); Otani, Y. [Center for Emergent Matter Science, RIKEN, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako 351-0198 (Japan); Institute for Solid State Physics, University of Tokyo, 5-1-5 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa 277-8581 (Japan)

2016-07-18

We investigated the structure and magneto-transport properties of magnetic junctions using a Co{sub 2}Fe(Ga{sub 0.5}Ge{sub 0.5}) Heusler alloy as ferromagnetic electrodes and a Cu(In{sub 0.8}Ga{sub 0.2})Se{sub 2} (CIGS) semiconductor as spacers. Owing to the semiconducting nature of the CIGS spacer, large magnetoresistance (MR) ratios of 40% at room temperature and 100% at 8 K were obtained for low resistance-area product (RA) values between 0.3 and 3 Ω μm{sup 2}. Transmission electron microscopy observations confirmed the fully epitaxial growth of the chalcopyrite CIGS layer, and the temperature dependence of RA indicated that the large MR was due to spin dependent tunneling.

Thermomagnetic and magnetocaloric properties of metamagnetic Ni-Mn-In-Co Heusler alloy in magnetic fields up to 140 kOe

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Kamantsev Alexander

2014-07-01

Full Text Available High cooling power of magnetocaloric refrigeration can be achieved only at large amounts of heat, which can be transferred in one cycle from cold end hot end at quasi-isothermal conditions. The simple and robust experimental method of direct measuring of the transferred heat of materials with magnetocaloric effect (MCE in thermal contact with massive copper block with definite heat capacity in quasi-isothermal regime was proposed. The vacuum calorimeter for the specific transferred heat ΔQ and adiabatic temperature change ΔT measurements of MCE materials in the fields of Bitter coil magnet up to H = 140 kOe was designed and tested on samples of Ni43Mn37.9In12.1Co7 Heusler alloy with inverse MCE in the vicinity of meta-magnetostructural phase transition (PT. It was found, that the magnetic field H = 80 kOe produces complete PT from martensite to austenite with ΔQ = - 1600 J/kg at initial temperature 273 K.

Simulation study of ballistic spin-MOSFET devices with ferromagnetic channels based on some Heusler and oxide compounds

Science.gov (United States)

Graziosi, Patrizio; Neophytou, Neophytos

2018-02-01

Newly emerged materials from the family of Heuslers and complex oxides exhibit finite bandgaps and ferromagnetic behavior with Curie temperatures much higher than even room temperature. In this work, using the semiclassical top-of-the-barrier FET model, we explore the operation of a spin-MOSFET that utilizes such ferromagnetic semiconductors as channel materials, in addition to ferromagnetic source/drain contacts. Such a device could retain the spin polarization of injected electrons in the channel, the loss of which limits the operation of traditional spin transistors with non-ferromagnetic channels. We examine the operation of four material systems that are currently considered some of the most prominent known ferromagnetic semiconductors: three Heusler-type alloys (Mn2CoAl, CrVZrAl, and CoVZrAl) and one from the oxide family (NiFe2O4). We describe their band structures by using data from DFT (Density Functional Theory) calculations. We investigate under which conditions high spin polarization and significant ION/IOFF ratio, two essential requirements for the spin-MOSFET operation, are both achieved. We show that these particular Heusler channels, in their bulk form, do not have adequate bandgap to provide high ION/IOFF ratios and have small magnetoconductance compared to state-of-the-art devices. However, with confinement into ultra-narrow sizes down to a few nanometers, and by engineering their spin dependent contact resistances, they could prove promising channel materials for the realization of spin-MOSFET transistor devices that offer combined logic and memory functionalities. Although the main compounds of interest in this paper are Mn2CoAl, CrVZrAl, CoVZrAl, and NiFe2O4 alone, we expect that the insight we provide is relevant to other classes of such materials as well.

Microstructure and magnetism of Co2FeAl Heusler alloy prepared by arc and induction melting compared with planar flow casting

Science.gov (United States)

Titov, A.; Jiraskova, Y.; Zivotsky, O.; Bursik, J.; Janickovic, D.

2018-04-01

This paper is devoted to investigations of the structural and magnetic properties of the Co2FeAl Heusler alloy produced by three technologies. The alloys prepared by arc and induction melting have resulted in coarse-grained samples in contrast to the fine-grained ribbon-type sample prepared by planar flow casting. Scanning electron microscopy completed by energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, Mössbauer spectroscopy, and magnetic methods sensitive to both bulk and surface were applied. The chemical composition was slightly different from the nominal only for the ribbon sample. From the viewpoint of magnetic properties, the bulk coercivity and remnant magnetization have followed the structure influenced by the technology used. Saturation magnetization was practically the same for samples prepared by arc and induction melting, whereas the magnetization of ribbon is slightly lower due to a higher Al content at the expense of iron and cobalt. The surface magnetic properties were markedly influenced by anisotropy, grain size, and surface roughness of the samples. The surface roughness and brittleness of the ribbon-type sample did not make domain structure observation possible. The other two samples could be well polished and their highly smooth surface has enabled domain structure visualization by both magneto-optical Kerr microscopy and magnetic force microscopy.

Low Temperature Electrical Spin Injection from Highly Spin Polarized Co₂CrAl Heusler Alloy into p-Si.

Science.gov (United States)

Kar, Uddipta; Panda, J; Nath, T K

2018-06-01

The low temperature spin accumulation in p-Si using Co2CrAl/SiO2 tunnel junction has been investigated in detail. The heterojunction has been fabricated using electron beam evaporation (EBE) technique. The 3-terminal contacts in Hanle geometry has been made for spin transport measurements. The electrical transport properties have been investigated at different isothermal conditions in the temperature range of 10-300 K. The current-voltage characteristics of the junction shows excellent rectifying magnetic diode like behaviour in lower temperature range (below 200 K). At higher temperature, the junction shows nonlinear behaviour without rectifying characteristics. We have observed spin accumulation signal in p-Si semiconductor using SiO2/Co2CrAl tunnel junction in the low temperature regime (30-100 K). Hence the highly spin polarized Full Heusler alloys compounds, like Co2CrAl etc., are very attractive and can act as efficient tunnel device for spin injection in the area of spintronics devices in near future. The estimated spin life time is τ = 54 pS and spin diffusion length inside p-Si is LSD = 289 nm at 30 K for this heterostructure.

Preparation and characterization of highly L21-ordered full-Heusler alloy Co2FeAl0.5Si0.5 thin films for spintronics device applications

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wang Wenhong; Sukegawa, Hiroaki; Shan Rong; Furubayashi, Takao; Inomata, Koichiro

2008-01-01

We report the investigation of structure and magnetic properties of full-Heusler alloy Co 2 FeAl 0.5 Si 0.5 (CFAS) thin films grown on MgO-buffered MgO (001) substrates through magnetron sputtering. It was found that single-crystal CFAS thin films with high degree of L2 1 ordering and sufficiently flat surface could be obtained after postdeposition annealing. All the films show a distinct uniaxial magnetic anisotropy with the easy axis of magnetization along the in-plane [110] direction. These results indicate that the use of the MgO buffer for CFAS is a promising approach for achieving a higher tunnel magnetoresistance ratio, and thus for spintronics device applications

A New Thermodynamic Calculation Method for Binary Alloys: Part I: Statistical Calculation of Excess Functions

Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)

无

2002-01-01

The improved form of calculation formula for the activities of the components in binary liquids and solid alloys has been derived based on the free volume theory considering excess entropy and Miedema's model for calculating the formation heat of binary alloys. A calculation method of excess thermodynamic functions for binary alloys, the formulas of integral molar excess properties and partial molar excess properties for solid ordered or disordered binary alloys have been developed. The calculated results are in good agreement with the experimental values.

Tuning Fermi level of Cr{sub 2}CoZ (Z=Al and Si) inverse Heusler alloys via Fe-doping for maximum spin polarization

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Singh, Mukhtiyar [Department of Physics, Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra-136119, Haryana (India); Saini, Hardev S. [Department of Physics, Panjab University, Chandigarh-160014 (India); Thakur, Jyoti [Department of Physics, Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra-136119, Haryana (India); Reshak, Ali H. [New Technologies—Research Center, University of West Bohemia, Univerzitni 8, 306 14 Pilsen (Czech Republic); Center of Excellence Geopolymer and Green Technology, School of Material Engineering, University Malaysia Perlis, 01007 Kangar, Perlis (Malaysia); Kashyap, Manish K., E-mail: manishdft@gmail.com [Department of Physics, Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra-136119, Haryana (India)

2014-12-15

We report full potential treatment of electronic and magnetic properties of Cr{sub 2−x}Fe{sub x}CoZ (Z=Al, Si) Heusler alloys where x=0.0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75 and 1.0, based on density functional theory (DFT). Both parent alloys (Cr{sub 2}CoAl and Cr{sub 2}CoSi) are not half-metallic frromagnets. The gradual replacement of one Cr sublattice with Fe induces the half-metallicity in these systems, resulting maximum spin polarization. The half-metallicity starts to appear in Cr{sub 2−x}Fe{sub x}CoAl and Cr{sub 2−x}Fe{sub x}CoSi with x=0.50 and x=0.25, respectively, and the values of minority-spin gap and half-metallic gap or spin-flip gap increase with further increase of x. These gaps are found to be maximum for x=1.0 for both cases. An excellent agreement between the structural properties of CoFeCrAl with available experimental study is obtained. The Fermi level tuning by Fe-doping makes these alloys highly spin polarized and thus these can be used as promising candidates for spin valves and magnetic tunnelling junction applications. - Highlights: • Tuning of E{sub F} in Cr{sub 2}CoZ (Z=Al, Si) has been demonstrated via Fe doping. • Effect of Fe doping on half-metallicity and magnetism have been discussed. • The new alloys have a potential of being used as spin polarized electrodes.

Engineering half-Heusler thermoelectric materials using Zintl chemistry

Science.gov (United States)

Zeier, Wolfgang G.; Schmitt, Jennifer; Hautier, Geoffroy; Aydemir, Umut; Gibbs, Zachary M.; Felser, Claudia; Snyder, G. Jeffrey

2016-06-01

Half-Heusler compounds based on XNiSn and XCoSb (X = Ti, Zr or Hf) have rapidly become important thermoelectric materials for converting waste heat into electricity. In this Review, we provide an overview on the electronic properties of half-Heusler compounds in an attempt to understand their basic structural chemistry and physical properties, and to guide their further development. Half-Heusler compounds can exhibit semiconducting transport behaviour even though they are described as ‘intermetallic’ compounds. Therefore, it is most useful to consider these systems as rigid-band semiconductors within the framework of Zintl (or valence-precise) compounds. These considerations aid our understanding of their properties, such as the bandgap and low hole mobility because of interstitial Ni defects in XNiSn. Understanding the structural and bonding characteristics, including the presence of defects, will help to develop different strategies to improve and design better half-Heusler thermoelectric materials.

Anti-phase boundaries and magnetic domain structures in Ni{sub 2}MnGa-type Heusler alloys

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Venkateswaran, S.P. [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 (United States); Nuhfer, N.T. [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 (United States); De Graef, M. [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 (United States)]. E-mail: degraef@cmu.edu

2007-05-15

The microstructure and magnetic domain structure of austenitic Heusler Ni{sub 2}MnGa are investigated as a function of heat treatment to study the interplay of anti-phase boundaries and magnetic domain walls. Conventional electron microscopy observations on arc-melted polycrystalline samples show that anti-phase boundaries in this system are invisible for standard two-beam imaging conditions, due to the large extinction distance of the Heusler superlattice reflections. Lorentz Fresnel and Foucault observations on quenched samples reveal a wavy magnetic domain morphology, reminiscent of curved anti-phase boundaries. A close inspection of the domain images indicates that the anti-phase boundaries have a magnetization state different from that of the matrix. Fresnel image simulations for a simple magnetization model are in good agreement with the observations. Magnetic coercivity measurements show a decrease in coercivity with annealing, which correlates with the microscopy observations of reduced anti-phase boundary density for annealed samples.

Thickness dependence of magnetic anisotropy and intrinsic anomalous Hall effect in epitaxial Co{sub 2}MnAl film

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Meng, K.K., E-mail: kkmeng@ustb.edu.cn [School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083 (China); Miao, J.; Xu, X.G. [School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083 (China); Zhao, J.H. [State Key Laboratory of Superlattices and Microstructures, Institute of Semiconductors, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100083 (China); Jiang, Y. [School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083 (China)

2017-04-04

We have investigated the thickness dependence of magnetic anisotropy and intrinsic anomalous Hall effect (AHE) in single-crystalline full-Heusler alloy Co{sub 2}MnAl (CMA) grown by molecular-beam epitaxy on GaAs(001). The magnetic anisotropy is the interplay of uniaxial and the fourfold anisotropy, and the corresponding anisotropy constants have been deduced. Considering the thickness of CMA is small, we ascribe it to the influence from interface stress. The AHE in CMA is found to be well described by a proper scaling. The intrinsic anomalous conductivity is found to be smaller than the calculated one and is thickness dependent, which is ascribed to the influence of chemical ordering by affecting the band structure and Fermi surface. - Highlights: • Single-crystalline full-Heusler alloy Co{sub 2}MnAl grown by molecular-beam epitaxy. • Uniaxial and the fourfold magnetic anisotropies in Heusler alloys. • Anomalous Hall effect in Heusler alloys. • The intrinsic contributions modified by chemical ordering.

Magnetoresistance in ferromagnetic shape memory alloy NiMnFeGa

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Liu, Z.H.; Ma, X.Q.; Zhu, Z.Y.; Luo, H.Z.; Liu, G.D.; Chen, J.L.; Wu, G.H.; Zhang Xiaokai; Xiao, John Q.

2011-01-01

The magnetoresistance (MR){=[R(H)-R(0)]/R(0)} properties in ferromagnetic shape memory alloy of NiMnFeGa ribbons and single crystals, and NiFeGa ribbons have been investigated. It is found that the NiMnFeGa melt-spun ribbon exhibited GMR effect, arising from the spin-dependent scattering from magnetic inhomogeneities consisting of antiferromagnetically coupled Mn atoms in B2 structure. In the absence of these magnetic inhomogeneities, Heusler alloys seem to show a common linear MR behavior at around 0.8T C , regardless of sample structures. This may be explained by the s-d model. At low temperatures, conventional AMR behaviors due to the spin-orbital coupling are observed. This is most likely due to the diminished MR from s-d model because of much less spin fluctuation, and is not associated with martensite phase. MR anomaly at intermediate field (ρ perpendicular >ρ || ) is also observed in single crystal samples, which may be related to unique features of Heusler alloys. - Highlights: → NiMnFeGa melt-spun ribbon exhibited GMR effect with a large negative MR up to -13%. → GMR behavior is arising from the spin-dependent scattering from magnetic inhomogeneities. → In the absence of these magnetic inhomogeneities, Heusler alloys seem to show a common linear MR behavior at around 0.8T C . → Conventional AMR behaviors due to the spin-orbital coupling are observed in NiMnFeGa single crystal and Ni 2 FeGa ribbon samples at low temperatures.

Surface half-metallicity of half-Heusler compound FeCrSe and interface half-metallicity of FeCrSe/GaP

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Khalaf Al-zyadi, Jabbar M., E-mail: jabbar_alzyadi@yahoo.com [Department of Physics, College of Education for Pure Sciences, University of Basrah (Iraq); Jolan, Mudhahir H. [Department of Physics, College of Education for Pure Sciences, University of Basrah (Iraq); Yao, Kai-Lun, E-mail: klyao@mail.hust.edu.cn [School of Physics and Wuhan National High Magnetic Field Center, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074 (China); International Center of Materials Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang 110015 (China)

2016-04-01

Recent studies showed that half-Heusler FeCrSe exhibits half-metallic ferromagnetism (Huang et al. [20]). In this paper, we investigate extensively the electronic, magnetic, and half-metallic properties of the half-Heusler alloy FeCrSe (111) and (001) surfaces and the interface with GaP (111) substrate by using the first-principles calculations within the density functional theory. The atomic density of states demonstrates that the half-me tallicity verified in the bulk FeCrSe is maintained at the CrSe-terminated (001) and Se-terminated (111) surfaces, but lost at both Cr- and Fe-terminated (111) surfaces and the Fe-terminated (001) surface. Alternatively, for the interface of FeCrSe/GaP (111), the bulk half-metallicity is destroyed at Se–P configuration while Se–Ga interface and subinterface show nearly 100% spin polarization. Moreover, the calculated interfacial adhesion energies exhibit that Se–Ga shape is more stable than the Se–P one. The calculated magnetic moments of Se, Ga at the Se–Ga (111) interface and P at the Se–P (111) interface increase with respect to the corresponding bulk values while the atomic magnetic moment of Se atom at the Se–P (111) interface decreases. We also notice that the magnetic moments of subinterface Fe at both Se–Ga and Se–P (111) interfaces decrease compared to the bulk values. - Highlights: • The half-metallicity verified in the bulk FeCrSe is kept at the CrSe-terminated (001) and Se-terminated (111) surfaces. • The calculated interfacial adhesion energies exhibit that Se–Ga shape is more stable than Se–P. • The magnetic moments of Se, Ga and P atoms at the interface increase. • The Se–Ga interface shows nearly 100% spin polarization.

Optimized thermoelectric performance of the n-type half-Heusler material TiNiSn by substitution and addition of Mn

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Enkhtaivan Lkhagvasuren

2017-04-01

Full Text Available Alloys based on the half-Heusler compound TiNiSn with the addition of Mn or with a substitution of Ti by Mn are investigated as high-temperature thermoelectric materials. In both materials an intrinsic phase separation is observed, similar to TiNiSn where Ti has been partially substituted by Hf, with increasing Mn concentration the phase separation drastically reduces the lattice thermal conductivity while the power factor is increased. The thermoelectric performance of the n-type conducting alloy can be optimized both by substitution of Ti by Mn as well as the addition of Mn.

Influence of disorder and interfaces on electronic and magnetic properties of Heusler systems; Einfluss von Unordnung und Grenzflaechen auf elektronische und magnetische Eigenschaften von Heusler-Systemen

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Krumme, Bernhard

2012-07-17

A Moessbauer-spectroscopic investigation of Fe{sub 3} films on GaAs(100) and MgO(100) revealed a disordered growth mode of Fe{sub 3}Si on GaAs(100), which is caused by an interdiffusion of Ga/As atoms. Implementing a 3 nm thick MgO tunnelbarrier on the GaAs suface inhibits the interdiffusion and enables an epitaxial film growth of Fe{sub 3}Si. By comparing experimental X-ray absorption measurements with DFT calculations we are able to resolve the contribution of the different Fe sublattices to the XAS and XMCD signal. Taking into account atomic disorder arising from Ga/As atoms within DFT calculation yields a small reduction of the spin polarization of Fe{sub 3}Si, indicating that the system Fe{sub 3}Si/GaAs(100) still is an interesting candidate for spintronic applications. For the Heusler compounds Co{sub 2}MnSi and Co{sub 2}FeSi the influence of the 3d transition metals Mn/Fe on the hybridization was determined by X-ray absorption and DFT calculations. A depth-selective study of the electronic structure of Mn in Co{sub 2}MnSi at the vicinity to a MgO tunnelbarrier indicates an increased number of unoccupied d states referring a MnSi terminated interface. The electronic structure of Si-rich Co{sub 2}FeSi depends on the external magnetic field. This points to magnetostrictive effects in this compound. Furthermore, the Heusler compound Ni{sub 51.6}Mn{sub 32.9}Sn{sub 15.5} was studied in this work. The compound is a shape memory alloy exhibiting a large inverse magnetocaloric effect. In this work the focus was put on the element-specific magnetic properties of Ni and Mn. For Mn a strong increase of the ratio of orbital to spin magnetic moment m{sub l}/m{sub S} was observed. In the austenite phase this ratio accounts for 5 %, whereas in the martensite this value becomes 13.5 %. For Ni m{sub l}/m{sub S} is almost constant at 28 %. applying a magnetic field of 3 T in the martensite phase leads to a reduction of m{sub l}/m{sub S} for both elements, indicating a field

On the Phase Separation in n-Type Thermoelectric Half-Heusler Materials

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Michael Schwall

2018-04-01

Full Text Available Half-Heusler compounds have been in focus as potential materials for thermoelectric energy conversion in the mid-temperature range, e.g., as in automotive or industrial waste heat recovery, for more than ten years now. Because of their mechanical and thermal stability, these compounds are advantageous for common thermoelectric materials such as Bi 2 Te 3 , SiGe, clathrates or filled skutterudites. A further advantage lies in the tunability of Heusler compounds, allowing one to avoid expensive and toxic elements. Half-Heusler compounds usually exhibit a high electrical conductivity σ , resulting in high power factors. The main drawback of half-Heusler compounds is their high lattice thermal conductivity. Here, we present a detailed study of the phase separation in an n-type Heusler materials system, showing that the Ti x Zr y Hf z NiSn system is not a solid solution. We also show that this phase separation is key to the thermoelectric high efficiency of n-type Heusler materials. These results strongly underline the importance of phase separation as a powerful tool for designing highly efficient materials for thermoelectric applications that fulfill the industrial demands of a thermoelectric converter.

Electronic structure calculations on nitride semiconductors and their alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Dugdale, D.

2000-09-01

Calculations of the electronic properties of AIN, GaN, InN and their alloys are presented. Initial calculations are performed using the first principles pseudopotential method to obtain accurate lattice constants. Further calculations then investigate bonding in the nitrides through population analysis and density of state calculations. The empirical pseudopotential method is also used in this work. Pseudopotentials for each of the nitrides are constructed using a functional form that allows strained material and alloys to be studied. The conventional k.p valence band parameters for both zincblende and wurtzite are obtained from the empirical band structure using two different methods. A Monte-Carlo fitting of the k.p band structure to the pseudopotential data (or an effective mass method for the zincblende structure) is used to produce one set. Another set is obtained directly from the momentum matrix elements and energy eigenvalues at the centre of the Brillouin zone. Both methods of calculating k.p parameters produce band structure in excellent agreement with the original empirical band calculations near the centre of the Brillouin zone. The advantage of the direct method is that it produces consistent sets of parameters, and can be used in studies involving a series of alloy compositions. Further empirical pseudopotential method calculations are then performed for alloys of the nitrides. In particular, the variation of the band gap with alloy composition is investigated, and good agreement with theory and experiment is found. The direct method is used to obtain k.p parameters for the alloys, and is contrasted with the fitting approach. The behaviour of the nitrides under strain is also studied. In particular. valence band offsets for nitride heterojunctions are calculated, and a strong forward- backward asymmetry in the band offset is found, in good agreement with other results in the literature. (author)

Doping effects on structural and magnetic properties of Heusler alloys Fe2Cr1-xCoxSi

Science.gov (United States)

Liu, Yifan; Ren, Lizhu; Zheng, Yuhong; He, Shikun; Liu, Yang; Yang, Ping; Yang, Hyunsoo; Teo, Kie Leong

2018-05-01

In this work, 30nm Fe2Cr1-xCoxSi (FCCS) magnetic films were deposited on Cr buffered MgO (100) substrates by sputtering. Fe2Cr0.5Co0.5Si exhibits the largest magnetization and optimal ordered L21 cubic structure at in-situ annealing temperature (Tia) of 450°C. The Co composition dependence of crystalline structures, surface morphology, defects, lattice distortions and their correlation with the magnetic properties are analyzed in detail. The Co-doped samples show in-plane M-H loops with magnetic squareness ratio of 1 and increasing anisotropy energy density with Co composition. Appropriate Co doping composition promotes L21 phase but higher Co composition converts L21 to B2 phase. Doping effect and lattice mismatch both are proved to increase the defect density. In addition, distortions of the FCCS lattice are found to be approximately linear with Co composition. The largest lattice distortion (c/a) is 0.969 for Fe2Cr0.25Co0.75Si and the smallest is 0.983 for Fe2CrSi. Our analyses suggest that these tetragonal distortions mainly induced by an elastic stress from Cr buffer account for the large in-plane anisotropy energy. This work paves the way for further tailoring the magnetic and structural properties of quaternary Heusler alloys.

Effect of Coulomb interactions and Hartree-Fock exchange on structural, elastic, optoelectronic and magnetic properties of Co{sub 2}MnSi Heusler: A comparative study

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Lantri, T. [Laboratory of Technology and Solid’s Properties, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, Abdelhamid Ibn Badis University, BP 227, Mostaganem 27000 (Algeria); Bentata, S., E-mail: sam_bentata@yahoo.com [Laboratory of Technology and Solid’s Properties, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, Abdelhamid Ibn Badis University, BP 227, Mostaganem 27000 (Algeria); Bouadjemi, B.; Benstaali, W. [Laboratory of Technology and Solid’s Properties, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, Abdelhamid Ibn Badis University, BP 227, Mostaganem 27000 (Algeria); Bouhafs, B. [Modelling and Simulation in Materials Science Laboratory, Djillali Liabès University of Sidi Bel-Abbès, 22000 Sidi Bel-Abbes (Algeria); Abbad, A. [Laboratory of Technology and Solid’s Properties, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, Abdelhamid Ibn Badis University, BP 227, Mostaganem 27000 (Algeria); Modelling and Simulation in Materials Science Laboratory, Djillali Liabès University of Sidi Bel-Abbès, 22000 Sidi Bel-Abbes (Algeria); Zitouni, A. [Laboratory of Technology and Solid’s Properties, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, Abdelhamid Ibn Badis University, BP 227, Mostaganem 27000 (Algeria)

2016-12-01

Using the first-principle calculations, we have investigated the structural, elastic, optoelectronic and magnetic properties of Co{sub 2}MnSi Heusler alloy. Based on the density functional theory (DFT) and hiring the full-potential linearized augmented plane wave (FP-LAPW) method, we have used five approaches: the Hybrid on-site exact exchange, the Local Spin Density Approximation (LSDA), the LSDA+U, the Generalized Gradient Approximation GGA and GGA+U; where the Hubbard on-site Coulomb interaction correction U is calculated by constraint local density approximation for Co and Mn atoms. Our results show that the highly-ordered Co{sub 2}MnSi alloy is a ductile, stiff and anisotropic material. It has a half-metallic ferromagnetic character with an integer magnetic moment of 5 µB which is in good agreement with the Slater-Pauling rule. - Highlights: • Each approach gives a half magnetic compound. • EECE gives the largest gap. • Elastic properties show a stiff, ductile and anisotropic material. • Electronic properties are similar for the five approaches. • Total magnetic moment is the same for the five approaches (5 µB).

Positron-annihilation 2D-ACAR studies of disordered and defected alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bansil, A.; Prasad, R.; Smedskjaer, L.C.; Benedek, R.; Mijnarends, P.E.

1987-09-01

Theoretical and experimental progess in connection with 2D-ACAR positron annihilation studies of ordered, disordered, and defected alloys is discussed. We present, in particular, some of the recent developments concerning the electronic structure of disordered alloys, and the work in the area of annihilation from positrons trapped at vacancy-type defects in metals and alloys. The electronic structure and properties of a number of compounds are also discussed briefly; we comment specifically on high T/sub c/ ceramic superconductors, Heusler alloys, and transition-metal aluminides. 58 refs., 116 figs

Ti2FeZ (Z=Al, Ga, Ge) alloys: Structural, electronic, and magnetic properties

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Liping, Mao; Yongfan, Shi; Yu, Han

2014-01-01

Using the first-principle projector augmented wave potential within the generalized gradient approximation taking into account the on-site Coulomb repulsive, we investigate the structural, electronic and magnetic properties of Ti 2 FeZ (Z=Al, Ga, Ge) alloys with Hg 2 CuTi-type structure. These alloys are found to be half-metallic ferrimagnets. The total magnetic moments of the Heusler alloys Ti 2 FeZ follow the µ t =Z t −18 rule and agree with the Slater–Pauling curve quite well. The band gaps are mainly determined by the bonding and antibonding states created from the hybridizations of the d states between the Ti(A)–Ti(B) coupling and Fe atom. - Highlights: • Ti 2 FeZ (Z=Al, Ga, Ge) are found to be half-metallic ferrimagnets. • The band gaps are mainly determined by the hybridizations of the d states between the Ti(A)–Ti(B) coupling and Fe atom. • The s–p elements play an important role in the half-metallicity of these Heusler alloys

Atomic disorder and the magnetic, electrical, and optical properties of a Co2CrAl Heusler alloy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Svyazhin, A. D.; Shreder, E. I.; Voronin, V. I.; Berger, I. F.; Danilov, S. E.

2013-01-01

Two Co 2 CrAl alloy samples subjected to different heat treatment regimes are studied. An exact distribution of atoms over the sublattices in the samples is determined by X-ray diffraction and neutron diffraction methods. These data are used to perform ab initio density of states calculations and to calculate the magnetic moments of the samples in a coherent potential approximation. The calculated magnetic moments are compared to the experimental values. The effect of atomic ordering on the electronic structure near the Fermi level is analyzed using optical methods. The possible causes of the detected temperature dependence of the electrical resistivity, unusual for metallic alloys, are discussed.

Band structure of Heusler compounds studied by photoemission and tunneling spectroscopy

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Arbelo Jorge, Elena

2011-07-01

Heusler compounds are key materials for spintronic applications. They have attracted a lot of interest due to their half-metallic properties predicted by band structure calculations. The aim of this work is to evaluate experimentally the validity of the predictions of half metallicity by band structure calculations for two specific Heusler compounds, Co{sub 2}FeAl{sub 0.3}Si{sub 0.7} and Co{sub 2}MnGa. Two different spectroscopy methods for the analysis of the electronic properties were used: Angular Resolved Ultraviolet Photoemission Spectroscopy (ARUPS) and Tunneling Spectroscopy. Heusler compounds are prepared as thin films by RF-sputtering in an ultra high vacuum system. For the characterization of the samples, bulk and surface crystallographic and magnetic properties of Co{sub 2}FeAl{sub 0.3}Si{sub 0.7} and Co{sub 2}MnGa are studied. X-ray and electron diffraction reveal a bulk and surface crossover between two different types of sublattice order (from B2 to L2{sub 1}) with increasing annealing temperature. X-ray magnetic circular dichroism results show that the magnetic properties in the surface and bulk are identical, although the magnetic moments obtained are 5 % below from the theoretically predicted. By ARUPS evidence for the validity of the predicted total bulk density of states (DOS) was demonstrated for both Heusler compounds. Additional ARUPS intensity contributions close to the Fermi energy indicates the presence of a specific surface DOS. Moreover, it is demonstrated that the crystallographic order, controlled by annealing, plays an important role on broadening effects of DOS features. Improving order resulted in better defined ARUPS features. Tunneling magnetoresistance measurements of Co{sub 2}FeAl{sub 0.3}Si{sub 0.7} and Co{sub 2}MnGa based MTJ's result in a Co{sub 2}FeAl{sub 0.3}Si{sub 0.7} spin polarization of 44 %, which is the highest experimentally obtained value for this compound, although it is lower than the 100 % predicted. For Co

Spin-filter and spin-gapless semiconductors: The case of Heusler compounds

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Galanakis, I.; Özdoğan, K.; Şaşıoğlu, E.

2016-01-01

We review our recent first-principles results on the inverse Heusler compounds and the ordered quaternary (also known as LiMgPdSn-type) Heusler compounds. Among these two subfamilies of the full-Heusler compounds, several have been shown to be magnetic semiconductors. Such material can find versatile applications, e.g. as spin-filter materials in magnetic tunnel junctions. Finally, a special case are the spin-gapless semiconductors, where the energy gap at the Fermi level for the one spin-direction is almost vanishing, offering novel functionalities in spintronic/magnetoelectronic devices.

Search for thermoelectrics with high figure of merit in half-Heusler compounds with multinary substitution

Science.gov (United States)

Choudhary, Mukesh K.; Ravindran, P.

2018-04-01

In order to improve the thermoelectric performance of TiCoSb we have substituted 50% of Ti equally with Zr and Hf at Ti site and Sb with Sn and Se equally at Sb site. The electronic structure of Ti0.5Zr0.25Hf0.25CoSn0.5Se0.5 is investigated using the full potential linearized augmented plane wave method and the thermoelectric transport properties are calculated on the basis of semi-classical Boltzmann transport theory. Our band structure calculations show that Ti0.5Zr0.25Hf0.25CoSn0.5Se0.5 has semiconducting behavior with indirect band gap value of 0.98 eV which follow the empirical rule of 18 valence-electron content to bring semiconductivity in half Heusler compounds, indicating that one can have semiconducting behavior in multinary phase of half Heusler compounds if they full fill the 18 VEC rule and this open-up the possibility of designing thermoelectrics with high figure of merit in half Heusler compounds. We show that at high temperature of around 700K Ti0.5Zr0.25Hf0.25CoSn0.5Se0.5 has high thermoelectric figure of merit of ZT = 1.05 which is higher than that of TiCoSb (˜ 0.95) suggesting that by going from ternary to multinary phase system one can enhance the thermoelectric figure of merit at higher temperatures.

NMR Evidence for the Topologically Nontrivial Nature in a Family of Half-Heusler Compounds

KAUST Repository

Zhang, Xiaoming

2016-03-16

Spin-orbit coupling (SOC) is expected to partly determine the topologically nontrivial electronic structure of heavy half-Heusler ternary compounds. However, to date, attempts to experimentally observe either the strength of SOC or how it modifies the bulk band structure have been unsuccessful. By using bulk-sensitive nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy combined with first-principles calculations, we reveal that 209Bi NMR isotropic shifts scale with relativity in terms of the strength of SOC and average atomic numbers, indicating strong relativistic effects on NMR parameters. According to first-principles calculations, we further claim that nuclear magnetic shieldings from relativistic p1/2 states and paramagnetic contributions from low-lying unoccupied p3/2 states are both sensitive to the details of band structures tuned by relativity, which explains why the hidden relativistic effects on band structure can be revealed by 209Bi NMR isotropic shifts in topologically nontrivial half-Heusler compounds. Used in complement to surface-sensitive methods, such as angle resolved photon electron spectroscopy and scanning tunneling spectroscopy, NMR can provide valuable information on bulk electronic states.

NMR Evidence for the Topologically Nontrivial Nature in a Family of Half-Heusler Compounds

KAUST Repository

Zhang, Xiaoming; Hou, Zhipeng; Wang, Yue; Xu, Guizhou; Shi, Chenglong; Liu, EnKe; Xi, Xuekui; Wang, Wenhong; Wu, Guangheng; Zhang, Xixiang

2016-01-01

Spin-orbit coupling (SOC) is expected to partly determine the topologically nontrivial electronic structure of heavy half-Heusler ternary compounds. However, to date, attempts to experimentally observe either the strength of SOC or how it modifies the bulk band structure have been unsuccessful. By using bulk-sensitive nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy combined with first-principles calculations, we reveal that 209Bi NMR isotropic shifts scale with relativity in terms of the strength of SOC and average atomic numbers, indicating strong relativistic effects on NMR parameters. According to first-principles calculations, we further claim that nuclear magnetic shieldings from relativistic p1/2 states and paramagnetic contributions from low-lying unoccupied p3/2 states are both sensitive to the details of band structures tuned by relativity, which explains why the hidden relativistic effects on band structure can be revealed by 209Bi NMR isotropic shifts in topologically nontrivial half-Heusler compounds. Used in complement to surface-sensitive methods, such as angle resolved photon electron spectroscopy and scanning tunneling spectroscopy, NMR can provide valuable information on bulk electronic states.

Development of thermophysical calculator for stainless steel casting alloys by using CALPHAD approach

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

In-Sung Cho

2017-11-01

Full Text Available The calculation of thermophysical properties of stainless steel castings and its application to casting simulation is discussed. It is considered that accurate thermophysical properties of the casting alloys are necessary for the valid simulation of the casting processes. Although previous thermophysical calculation software requires a specific knowledge of thermodynamics, the calculation method proposed in the present study does not require any special knowledge of thermodynamics, but only the information of compositions of the alloy. The proposed calculator is based on the CALPHAD approach for modeling of multi-component alloys, especially in stainless steels. The calculator proposed in the present study can calculate thermophysical properties of eight-component systems on an iron base alloy (Fe-C-Si-Cr-Mn-Ni-Cu-Mo, and several Korean standard stainless steel alloys were calculated and discussed. The calculator can evaluate the thermophysical properties of the alloys such as density, heat capacity, enthalpy, latent heat, etc, based on full Gibbs energy for each phase. It is expected the proposed method can help casting experts to devise the casting design and its process easily in the field of not only stainless steels but also other alloy systems such as aluminum, copper, zinc, etc.

Synthesis and thermoelectric properties of fine-grained FeVSb system half-Heusler compound polycrystals with high phase purity

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zou Minmin; Li Jingfeng; Guo Peijun; Kita, Takuji

2010-01-01

Nearly single-phased FeVSb half-Heusler compound thermoelectric materials with fine grains of diameter 100-200 nm were prepared from their elemental powders by combining mechanical alloying (MA) and spark plasma sintering. The resultant bulk samples showed a relatively low room-temperature electrical resistivity on the order of 10 μΩm, and a moderate negative Seebeck coefficient with a maximum value of -175 μV K -1 at 300 0 C. It was found that proper excessive addition of V relative to the stoichiometric composition (FeVSb) during MA enhanced the phase purity and hence the power factor of the spark plasma sintered samples, resulting in a large power factor value of 2480 μW m -1 K -2 when the elemental powders were mixed with the composition FeV 1.15 Sb. Its thermal conductivity was significantly reduced mainly due to refined grain sizes, resulting in a high dimensionless figure of merit ZT of 0.31 at a low-to-mid temperature (300 0 C) as for undoped half-Heusler compounds.

Near total magnetic moment compensation with high Curie temperature in Mn2V0.5Co0.5Z (Z  =  Ga,Al) Heusler alloys

Science.gov (United States)

Midhunlal, P. V.; Arout Chelvane, J.; Arjun Krishnan, U. M.; Prabhu, D.; Gopalan, R.; Kumar, N. Harish

2018-02-01

Mn2V1-x Co x Z (Z  =  Ga,Al and x  =  0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1) Heusler alloys have been synthesized to investigate the effect of Co substitution at the V site on the magnetic moment and Curie temperature of half-metallic ferrimagnets Mn2VGa and Mn2VAl. Near total magnetic moment compensation was achieved with high Curie temperature for x  =  0.5 composition. The Co substituted alloys show a non linear decrease in lattice parameter without altering the crystal structure of the parent alloys. The end members Mn2VGa and Mn2CoGa have the saturation magnetization of 1.80 µ B/f.u. and 2.05 µ B/f.u. respectively whereas for the Mn2V0.5Co0.5Ga alloy, a near total magnetic moment compensation (0.10 µ B/f.u.) was observed due to the ferrimagnetic coupling of Mn with parallelly aligned V and Co. The Co substituted Mn2VAl has also shown a similar trend with compensated magnetic moment value of 0.06 µ B/f.u. for x  =  0.5. The Curie temperatures of the alloys including the x  =  0.5 composition are well above the room temperature (more than 650 K) which is in sharp contrast to the earlier reported values of 171 K for the (MnCo)VGa and 105 K for the (MnCo)VAl (substitution at the Mn site). The observed T C values are highest among the Mn2V based fully compensated ferrimagnets. The magnetic moment compensation without significant reduction in T C indicates that the V site substitution of Co does not weaken the magnetic interaction in Mn2VZ (Z  =  Ga,Al) alloys which is contrary to the earlier experimental reports on Mn site substitution.

The magnetic hyperfine field in the 181Ta site in the Co2HfAl and Co2HfGa Heusler alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Silva, R. da.

1979-01-01

The hyperfine magnetic fields at 181 Ta nuclei in Heusler alloys Co 2 HfZ (Z=Al, Ga) have been measured using the time differential perturbed gamma-gamma angular correlation (TDPAC) method. The hyperfine fields obtained from these measurements at the liquid nitrogen temperature are -189 and +- 150 kOersted for Co 2 HfAl and Co 2 HfGa, respectively. The concept that the hyperfine field at the Y site is similar to the solute fields in Fe, Co, Ni and Gd matrices is corroborated. We have verified that ratios H sub(hf) sub(Ta)/T sub(c) and H sub(hf) sub(Ta)μ sub(Co) in Co 2 HfZ compounds (Z=Al, Ga, Sn) do not depend on the nature of Z element. However a dependence in the value of observed field with the s-p element in Z site was noticed. We feel that the samples are not completely ordered cubic as observed by the quadrupole interaction measurements. The results are interpreted in terms of the Campbell-Blandin formalism, and it is shown that the spin polarization of conduction electrons at Hf and Ta have opposite signs. (Author) [pt

Manipulating magnetic anisotropy of the ultrathin Co2FeAl full-Heusler alloy film via growth orientation of the Pt buffer layer

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wen, F.S.; Xiang, J.Y.; Hao, C.X.; Zhang, F.; Lv, Y.F.; Wang, W.H.; Hu, W.T.; Liu, Z.Y.

2013-01-01

The ultrathin films of Co 2 FeAl (CFA) full-Heusler alloy were prepared between two Pt layers on MgO single crystals by magnetron sputtering. By controlling the substrate temperature, different growth orientations of the Pt underlayers were realized, and their effects were investigated on the magnetic anisotropy of the ultrathin CFA film. It was revealed that different Pt orientations lead to distinctly different magnetic anisotropy for the sandwiched ultrathin CFA films. The Pt (111) orientation favors the perpendicular anisotropy, while the appearance of partial Pt (001) orientation leads to the quick decrease of perpendicular anisotropy and the complete Pt (001) orientation gives rise to the in-plane anisotropy. With the Pt (111) orientation, the temperature and thickness-induced spin reorientation transitions were investigated in the sandwiched ultrathin CFA films. - Highlights: • Different Pt orientations lead to different magnetic anisotropy for sandwiched ultrathin CFA films. • The Pt (111) orientation favors the perpendicular anisotropy for CFA layer. • Temperature and thickness-induced spin reorientation transitions were investigated in sandwiched ultrathin CFA films. • 0.8 nm CFA film is good candidate as electrode in magnetic tunnel junctions

Calculation methods for dissolution rate of multicomponent alloys during electrochemical machining

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Dikusar, A.I.; Petrenko, V.I.; Dikusar, G.K.; Ehngel'gardt, G.R.; Michukova, N.Yu.

1981-01-01

The possibility of theoretical calculation of metal dissolution rate during electrochemical mashining is considered. Two calculation techniques are compared at the example of two-component W-Re, Ni-W, Mo-Re alloys, namely: ''charge superposition'' and ''weight percents''. It is concluded that the technique of ''charge superposition'' is the only grounded calculation technique of specific rates of dissolution for alloys [ru

Designing a New Ni-Mn-Sn Ferromagnetic Shape Memory Alloy with Excellent Performance by Cu Addition

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Kun Zhang

2018-02-01

Full Text Available Both magnetic-field-induced reverse martensitic transformation (MFIRMT and a high working temperature are crucial for the application of Ni-Mn-Sn magnetic shape memory alloys. Here, by first-principles calculations, we demonstrate that the substitution of Cu for Sn is effective not only in enhancing the MFIRMT but also in increasing martensitic transformation, which is advantageous for its application. Large magnetization difference (ΔM in Ni-Mn-Sn alloy is achieved by Cu doping, which arises from the enhancement of magnetization of austenite due to the change of Mn-Mn interaction from anti-ferromagnetism to ferromagnetism. This directly leads to the enhancement of MFIRMT. Meanwhile, the martensitic transformation shifts to higher temperature, owing to the energy difference between the austenite L21 structure and the tetragonal martensite L10 structure increases by Cu doping. The results provide the theoretical data and the direction for developing a high temperature magnetic-field-induced shape memory alloy with large ΔM in the Ni-Mn-Sn Heusler alloy system.

Vacancy induced half-metallicity in half-Heusler semiconductors

KAUST Repository

Zhu, Zhiyong

2011-09-28

First-principles calculations are performed to investigate the effect of vacancies on the electronic structure and magnetic properties of the two prototypical half-Heusler semiconductors NiTiSn and CoTiSb. The spin degeneracy of the host materials is broken for all types of isolated vacancies under consideration, except for Ni-deficient NiTiSn. A half-metallic character is identified in Sn-deficient NiTiSn and Co/Ti/Sb-deficient CoTiSb. We can explain our findings by introducing an extending Slater-Pauling rule for systems with defects. A ferromagnetic ordering of the local moments due to double exchange appears to be likely.

Hyperfine-field distribution in Fe3Si/sub 1-x/Al/sub x/ alloys and a theoretical interpretation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Burch, T.J.; Raj, K.; Jena, P.; Budnick, J.I.; Niculescu, V.; Muir, W.B.

1979-01-01

In Fe 3 Si/sub 1-x/Al/sub x/ alloys with small x the Si and Al nuclear magnetic resonances are 31.5 and 16.1 MHz, respectively. The concentration dependences of the frequencies of these resonances are linear, the Si resonance shifting to lower frequencies, the Al resonance to higher frequencies. Both the magnitudes and concentration dependences of the Si and Al internal fields are in agreement with the predictions of a simple model which Jena and Geldart, following the approach of Daniel and Friedel, have found successful in calculating the fields of sp elements in Heusler alloys. A positive sign is predicted for the Si internal field, and a negative sign for the Al field. Magnetization and lattice-parameter data required for the comparison of experiment and theory are also reported

Tuning magneto-structural properties of Ni{sub 44}Co{sub 6}Mn{sub 39}Sn{sub 11} Heusler alloy ribbons by Fe-doping

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Wójcik, Anna, E-mail: a.wojcik@imim.pl [Institute of Metallurgy and Materials Science, Polish Academy of Sciences, 25 Reymonta Street, 30-059 Kraków (Poland); Maziarz, Wojciech; Szczerba, Maciej J. [Institute of Metallurgy and Materials Science, Polish Academy of Sciences, 25 Reymonta Street, 30-059 Kraków (Poland); Sikora, Marcin [Academic Centre for Materials and Nanotechnology, AGH University of Science and Technology, Al. Mickiewicza 30, 30-059 Kraków (Poland); Dutkiewicz, Jan [Institute of Metallurgy and Materials Science, Polish Academy of Sciences, 25 Reymonta Street, 30-059 Kraków (Poland); Cesari, Eduard [Departament de Física, Universitat de les Illes Balears, Ctra. De Valldemossa, km 7.5, E-07122 Palma de Mallorca (Spain)

2016-07-15

Graphical abstract: - Highlights: • Fe substitution for Ni in Ni{sub 44}Co{sub 6}Mn{sub 39}Sn{sub 11} causes a drastic decrease of M{sub T} temperature. • The type of structure changes with increasing of iron (12M → 10M + L2{sub 1} → L2{sub 1}). • Content of Fe above 1 at.% has a negative influence on magneto-structural properties. - Abstract: Microstructure, martensitic transformation behavior and magnetic properties of Ni{sub 44−x}Fe{sub x}Co{sub 6}Mn{sub 39}Sn{sub 11} (x = 0, 1, 2 at.%) melt spun ribbons have been investigated. The influence of iron addition has been thoroughly studied by means of electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and vibrating sample magnetometry. The results show that addition of 1 at.% of iron into quaternary Ni–Co–Mn–Sn Heusler alloy drastically decreases the martensitic transformation temperature by more than 100 K. Higher concentration of iron leads to complete suppression of martensitic transition. The structure of samples change from fully martensite (12 M) through mixed austenite-martensite (L2{sub 1} + 10 M) to fully austenite (L2{sub 1}) with increase of iron content. Addition of 1 at.% of iron leads to enhance magnetization of both austenitic and martensitic phases and also a small increase of Curie temperature occurs. The largest change of magnetic entropy under 15 kOe measured 2.9 and 0.65 J kg{sup −1} K{sup −1} for alloys where x = 0 and 1, respectively.

Improvement of thermoelectric properties for half-Heusler TiNiSn by interstitial Ni defects

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hazama, Hirofumi; Matsubara, Masato; Asahi, Ryoji; Takeuchi, Tsunehiro

2011-01-01

We have synthesized off-stoichiometric Ti-Ni-Sn half-Heusler thermoelectrics in order to investigate the relation between randomly distributed defects and thermoelectric properties. A small change in the composition of Ti-Ni-Sn causes a remarkable change in the thermal conductivity. An excess content of Ni realizes a low thermal conductivity of 2.93 W/mK at room temperature while keeping a high power factor. The low thermal conductivity originates in the defects generated by an excess content of Ni. To investigate the detailed defect structure, we have performed first-principles calculations and compared with x ray photoemission spectroscopy measurement. Based on these analyses, we conclude that the excess Ni atoms randomly occupy the vacant sites in the half-Heusler structure, which play as phonon scattering centers, resulting in significant improvement of the figure of merit without any substitutions of expensive heavy elements, such as Zr and Hf.

Manipulating magnetic anisotropy of the ultrathin Co{sub 2}FeAl full-Heusler alloy film via growth orientation of the Pt buffer layer

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Wen, F.S., E-mail: wenfsh03@126.com [State Key Lab of Metastable Materials Science and Technology, Yanshan University, Qinhuangdao 066004 (China); Xiang, J.Y.; Hao, C.X.; Zhang, F.; Lv, Y.F. [State Key Lab of Metastable Materials Science and Technology, Yanshan University, Qinhuangdao 066004 (China); Wang, W.H. [Institute of Physics, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing 100080 (China); Hu, W.T.; Liu, Z.Y. [State Key Lab of Metastable Materials Science and Technology, Yanshan University, Qinhuangdao 066004 (China)

2013-12-15

The ultrathin films of Co{sub 2}FeAl (CFA) full-Heusler alloy were prepared between two Pt layers on MgO single crystals by magnetron sputtering. By controlling the substrate temperature, different growth orientations of the Pt underlayers were realized, and their effects were investigated on the magnetic anisotropy of the ultrathin CFA film. It was revealed that different Pt orientations lead to distinctly different magnetic anisotropy for the sandwiched ultrathin CFA films. The Pt (111) orientation favors the perpendicular anisotropy, while the appearance of partial Pt (001) orientation leads to the quick decrease of perpendicular anisotropy and the complete Pt (001) orientation gives rise to the in-plane anisotropy. With the Pt (111) orientation, the temperature and thickness-induced spin reorientation transitions were investigated in the sandwiched ultrathin CFA films. - Highlights: • Different Pt orientations lead to different magnetic anisotropy for sandwiched ultrathin CFA films. • The Pt (111) orientation favors the perpendicular anisotropy for CFA layer. • Temperature and thickness-induced spin reorientation transitions were investigated in sandwiched ultrathin CFA films. • 0.8 nm CFA film is good candidate as electrode in magnetic tunnel junctions.

Design of thermoelectrically highly efficient Heusler compounds using phase separations and nano-composites under an economic point of view

Science.gov (United States)

Balke, Benjamin

Half-Heusler (HH) compounds are one of the most promising candidates for thermoelectric materials for automotive and industrial waste heat recovery applications. In this talk, I will give an overview about our recent investigations of phase separations in HH thermoelectrics, focusing on the ternary system TiNiSn-ZrNiSn-HfNiSn. I will show how we adapted this knowledge to design a p-type HH compound which exhibits a ZT that is increased by 130% compared to the best published bulk p-type Heusler. I will also present how we used the phase separation to design thermoelectric highly efficient nano-composites of different single-phase materials. Since the price for Hafnium doubled within the last year, our research focused on the design of HH compounds without Hafnium. I will present a very recent calculation on ZT per Euro and efficiency per Euro for various materials followed by our latest very promising results for n-type Heusler compunds without Hafnium resulting in 20 times higher ZT/Euro values. These results strongly underline the importance of phase separations as a powerful tool for designing highly efficient materials for thermoelectric applications that fulfill the industrial demands for a thermoelectric converter. The author gratefully acknowledges financial support by the thermoHEUSLER2 Project (Project No. 19U15006F) of the German Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology (BMWi).

Site preference and elastic properties of ternary alloying additions in B2 YAg alloys by first-principles calculations

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Wu Yurong, E-mail: winwyr@126.com [College of Electromechanical Engineering, Hunan University of Science and Technology, Xiantang 411201 (China); Hu Wangyu [Department of Applied Physics, Hunan University, Changsha 410082 (China); Xu Longshan [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Xiamen University of Technology, Xiamen 361024 (China)

2012-09-15

First-principles calculations were preformed to study the site preference behavior and elastic properties of 3d (Ti-Cu) transition-metal elements in B2 ductility YAg alloy. In YAg, Ti is found to occupy the Y sublattice whereas V, Cr, Co, Fe, Ni and Cu tend to substitute for Ag sublattice. Due to the addition of 3d transition metals, the lattice parameters of YAg is decreased in the order: Vcalculated elastic constants show that Cr, Fe, Co and Cu can improve the ductility of YAg alloy, and Fe is the most effective element to improve the ductility of YAg, while Ti, Ni and V alloying elements can reduce the ductility of YAg alloy, especially, V transforms ductile into brittle for YAg alloy. In addition, both V and Ni alloying elements can increase the hardness of YAg alloy, and Y{sub 8}Ag{sub 7}V is harder than Y{sub 8}Ag{sub 7}Ni.

Ductile shape memory alloys of the Cu-Al-Mn system

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kainuma, R.; Takahashi, S.; Ishida, K.

1995-01-01

Cu-Al-Mn shape memory alloys with enhanced ductility have been developed by decreasing the degree of order in the β parent phase. Cu-Al-Mn alloys with Al contents lower than 18% exhibit good ductility with elongations of about 15% and excellent cold-workability arising from a lower degree of order in the Heusler (L21) β 1 parent phase, without any loss in their shape memory behavior. In this paper the mechanical and shape memory characteristics, such as the cold-workability, the Ms temperatures, the shape memory effect and the pseudo-elasticity of such ductile Cu-Al-Mn alloys are presented. (orig.)

Observation of Dirac state in half-Heusler material YPtBi

OpenAIRE

Hosen, M. Mofazzel; Dhakal, Gyanendra; Dimitri, Klauss; Choi, Hongchul; Kabir, Firoza; Sims, Christopher; Pavlosiuk, Orest; Wisniewski, Piotr; Durakiewicz, Tomasz; Zhu, Jian-Xin; Kaczorowski, Dariusz; Neupane, Madhab

2018-01-01

The prediction of non-trivial topological electronic states hosted by half-Heusler compounds makes them prime candidates for discovering new physics and devices as they harbor a variety of electronic ground states including superconductivity, magnetism, and heavy fermion behavior. Here we report normal state electronic properties of a superconducting half-Heusler compound YPtBi using angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy (ARPES). Our data reveal the presence of a Dirac state at the zone c...

Properties of half-Heusler compounds TaIrGe by using first-principles calculations

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Wei, JunHong [Henan Normal University, College of Physics and Information Engineering, Xinxiang, Henan (China); Henan Institute of Science and Technology, School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Xinxiang, Henan (China); Wang, Guangtao [Henan Normal University, College of Physics and Information Engineering, Xinxiang, Henan (China)

2017-05-15

The electronic structures, optical and thermoelectric properties of ternary half-Heusler compound TaIrGe were investigated by using the first-principles and Boltzmann transport theory. Spin-orbit coupling (SOC) removed the degeneracy of VBM, and then decreased the Seebeck coefficients and power factor. From the compressive to tensile strain, the band gap gradually increases from 0.96 to 1.11 eV, accompanied by the absorption coefficient peak red-shift. The effective mass (m{sup *}{sub DOS}) of VBM and CBM gradually increases from the compressive to tensile strain, which enhances the Seebeck coefficient and power factor. Our results indicate that the electronic structures, optical and thermoelectric properties of TaIrGe can be effectively tuned by the strain and TaIrGe can be used as an important photoelectric and thermoelectric material in the future. (orig.)

Half-Heusler compounds with a 1 eV (1.7 eV) direct band gap, lattice-matched to GaAs (Si), for solar cell application: A first-principles study

KAUST Repository

Belmiloud, N.

2016-01-10

A systematic theoretical study of the structural and electronic properties of new half-Heusler compounds is performed to find the appropriate target key physical parameters for photovoltaic application. As a result, five ternary half-Heusler compounds ScAgC, YCuC, CaZnC, NaAgO, and LiCuS are studied by density functional theory for potential applications in multi-junction solar cells. The calculated formation enthalpies indicate that these materials are thermodynamically stable. Using state-of-the-art modified Becke-Johnson exchange potential approximation, we find a direct band gap close to 1eV (∼1.88eV) for ScAgC, YCuC, CaZnC, NaAgO (LiCuS) being quasi-lattice matched to GaAs (Si). In addition, the band offsets between half-Heusler compounds and GaAs (Si) and their consequences for heterostructures are derived using the modified Tersoff method for the branch-point energy. Furthermore, the elastic constants and phonon dispersion curves are calculated. They indicate the respective mechanical and dynamical stability of these half-Heusler compounds. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Co and In doped Ni-Mn-Ga magnetic shape memory alloys: a thorough structural, magnetic and magnetocaloric study

Czech Academy of Sciences Publication Activity Database

Fabbrici, S.; Porcari, G.; Cugini, F.; Solzi, M.; Kamarád, Jiří; Arnold, Zdeněk; Cabassi, R.; Albertini, F.

2014-01-01

Roč. 16, č. 4 (2014), s. 2204-2222 ISSN 1099-4300 Institutional support: RVO:68378271 Keywords : magnetic shape memory materials * magnetocaloric effect * multifunctional Heusler alloys Subject RIV: BM - Solid Matter Physics ; Magnetism Impact factor: 1.502, year: 2014

Transport measurements on superconducting iron pnictides and Heusler compounds; Transportmessungen an Supraleitenden Eisenpniktiden und Heusler-Verbindungen

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Bombor, Dirk

2014-09-05

In this work, results of electronic transport measurements are discussed for superconducting iron pnictides as well as for ferromagnetic Heusler compounds. The iron pnictides are a recently discovered class of high temperature superconductors where magnetism might play a crucial role. While the 122-pnictides show antiferromagnetism and migrate to the superconducting state upon doping, ferromagnetism has been observed in doped LiFeAs. On the other hand, in the undoped state this material shows interesting superconducting properties. Among other properties, Heusler compounds are well known due to their ferromagnetism. Co{sub 2}FeSi, which was investigated in this work, is one of the strongest ferromagnets. Beside this, one predicts this compound to be a half-metallic ferromagnet with completely spin polarized electronic transport where all conducting electrons have the same spin. The here addressed properties can well be investigated with the method of electronic transport measurements, whose results on single crystals are discussed in this work.

Magnetic, transport, and magnetocaloric properties of boron doped Ni-Mn-In alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pandey, S.; Quetz, A.; Aryal, A.; Dubenko, I.; Ali, N.; Rodionov, I. D.; Blinov, M. I.; Titov, I. S.; Prudnikov, V. N.; Granovsky, A. B.; Stadler, S.

2015-01-01

The impact of B substitution in Ni 50 Mn 35 In 15−x B x Heusler alloys on the structural, magnetic, transport, and parameters of the magnetocaloric effect (MCE) has been studied by means of room-temperature X-ray diffraction and thermomagnetic measurements (in magnetic fields (H) up to 5 T, and in the temperature interval 5–400 K). Direct adiabatic temperature change (ΔT AD ) measurements have been carried out for an applied magnetic field change of 1.8 T. The transition temperatures (T-x) phase diagram has been constructed for H = 0.005 T. The MCE parameters were found to be comparable to those observed in other MCE materials such as Ni 50 Mn 34.8 In 14.2 B and Ni 50 Mn 35 In 14 X (X=In, Al, and Ge) Heusler alloys. The maximum absolute value of ΔT AD  = 2.5 K was observed at the magnetostructural transition for Ni 50 Mn 35 In 14.5 B 0.5

Phase transition of Ni-Mn-Ga alloy powders prepared by vibration ball milling

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tian, B.; Chen, F.; Tong, Y.X.; Li, L.; Zheng, Y.F.; Liu, Y.; Li, Q.Z.

2011-01-01

Research highlights: → The vibration ball milling with a high milling energy introduces the atomic disorder and large lattice distortion in the alloy during milling and makes the formation of disordered fcc structure phase in the alloy. → The transition temperature and activation energy for disordered fcc → disordered bcc are ∼320 o C and 209 ± 8 kJ/mol, respectively. → The alloy powders annealed at 800 o C for 1 h show a one-stage martensitic transformation with quite lower latent heat compared to the bulk alloy. - Abstract: This study investigated the phase transformation of the flaky shaped Ni-Mn-Ga powder particles with thickness around 1 μm prepared by vibration ball milling and post-annealing. The SEM, XRD, DSC and ac magnetic susceptibility measurement techniques were used to characterize the Ni-Mn-Ga powders. The structural transition of Heusler → disordered fcc occurred in the powders prepared by vibration ball milling (high milling energy) for 4 h, which was different from the structural transition of Heusler → disordered fct of the powders fabricated by planetary ball milling (low milling energy) for 4 h. The two different structures after ball milling should be due to the larger lattice distortion occurred in the vibration ball milling process than in the planetary ball milling process. The structural transition of disordered fcc → disordered bcc took place at ∼320 o C during heating the as-milled Ni-Mn-Ga powders, which was attributed to the elimination of lattice distortion caused by ball milling. The activation energy for this transition was 209 ± 8 kJ/mol. The Ni-Mn-Ga powder annealed at 800 o C mainly contained Heusler austenite phase at room temperature and showed a low volume of martensitic transformation upon cooling. The inhibition of martensitic transformation might be attributed to the reduction of grain size in the annealed Ni-Mn-Ga particles.

Structural, electronic, magnetic, elastic, and thermal properties of Co-based equiatomic quaternary Heusler alloys

Science.gov (United States)

Paudel, Ramesh; Zhu, Jingchuan

2018-05-01

In this research work, we have predicted the physical properties of CoFeZrGe and CoFeZrSb for the first time by utilizing first principle calculations based on density functional theory. The exchange-correlation potentials are treated within the generalized-gradient approximation of Perdew-Burke and Ernzerhof (GGA-PBE). The investigated equilibrium lattice parameters of CoFeCrSi are in agreement with available theoretical data and for CoFeZrZ(Z = Ge,Sb) are 6.0013 and 6.2546 Å respectively. The calculated magnetic moments are 1.01μB /fu , 2μB /fu and 1μB /fu for CoFeZrZ(Z = Ge, Sb and Si) respectively, and agree with the Slater-Pauling rule, Mt =Zt - 24 . The CoFeZrGe, CoFeZrSb and CoFeZrSi composites showed half-metallic behaviour with 100 % spin polarization at equilibrium lattice parameters with band gap of 0.43, 0.70 and 0.59 eV for GGA and an improved band gap of 0.86, 1.01 and 1.08 for GGA + U respectively. Elastic properties are also discussed in this paper and it is found that all the materials are mechanically stable and ductile in nature. The CoFeZrSi alloy is found to be stiffer than CoFeZrZ(Z = Ge and Sb) alloys. The Debye temperatures are predicted by using calculated elastic constants. Moreover, the volume heat capacities (Cv) are investigated by utilizing the quasi-harmonic Debye model.

Structural, electronic and magnetic properties of Fe{sub 2}-based full Heusler alloys: A first principle study

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Dahmane, F., E-mail: fethallah05@gmail.com [Département de SM, Institue des sciences et des technologies, Centre universitaire de Tissemsilt, 38000, Tissemsilt (Algeria); Modelling and Simulation in Materials Science Laboratory, Physics Department, University of Sidi Bel-Abbes, 22000 Sidi Bel-Abbes (Algeria); Mogulkoc, Y. [Department of Engineering Physics, Ankara University, Ankara (Turkey); Doumi, B.; Tadjer, A. [Modelling and Simulation in Materials Science Laboratory, Physics Department, University of Sidi Bel-Abbes, 22000 Sidi Bel-Abbes (Algeria); Khenata, R. [Laboratoire de Physique Quantique de la Matière et de Modélisation Mathématique (LPQ3M), Université de Mascara, 29000 Mascara (Algeria); Bin Omran, S. [Department of Physics and Astronomy, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O Box 2455, Riyadh 11451 (Saudi Arabia); Rai, D.P. [Department of Physics, Pachhunga University College, Aizawl-796001 (India); Murtaza, G. [Materials Modeling Lab, Department of Physics, Islamia College University, Peshawar (Pakistan); Varshney, Dinesh [Materials Science Laboratory, School of Physics, Vigyan Bhavan, Devi Ahilya University, Khandwa Road Campus, Indore 452001 (India)

2016-06-01

Using the first-principles density functional calculations, the structural, electronic and magnetic properties of the Fe{sub 2}XAl (X=Cr, Mn, Ni) compounds in both the Hg{sub 2}CuTi and Cu{sub 2}MnAl-type structures were studied by the full-potential linearized augmented plane waves (FP-LAPW) method. The exchange and correlation potential is treated by the generalized-gradient approximation (GGA) where the results show that the Cu{sub 2}MnAl-type structure is energetically more stable than the Hg{sub 2}CuTi-type structure for the Fe{sub 2}CrAl and Fe{sub 2}MnAl compounds at the equilibrium volume. The full Heusler compounds Fe{sub 2}XAl (X=Cr, Mn) are half-metallic in the Cu{sub 2}MnAl-type structure. Fe{sub 2}NiAl has a metallic character in both CuHg{sub 2}Ti and AlCu{sub 2}Mn-type structures. The total magnetic moments of the Fe{sub 2}CrAl and Fe{sub 2}MnAl compounds are 1.0 and 2.0 μ{sub B}, respectively, which are in agreement with the Slater–Pauling rule M{sub tot}=Z{sub tot}− 24.

Study of the embedded atom method of atomistic calculations for metals and alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Johnson, R.A.

1990-10-01

Two projects were completed in the past year. The stability of a series of binary alloys was calculated using the embedded-atom method (EAM) with an analytic form for two-body potentials derived previously. Both disordered alloys and intermetallic compounds with the L1 0 and L1 2 structures were studied. The calculated heats of solution of alloys of Cu, Ag, Au, Ni, and Pt were satisfactory, while results for alloys containing Pd were too high. Atomistic calculations using the EAM were also carried out for point defects in hcp metals. By comparison with results in the literature, it was found that many body effects from the EAM significantly alter predicted physical properties of hcp metals. For example, the EAM calculations yield anisotropic vacancy diffusion with greater vacancy mobility in the basal plane, and imply that diffusion will start at a lower fraction of the melting temperature

Transformation Paths from Cubic to Low-Symmetry Structures in Heusler Ni2MnGa Compound.

Science.gov (United States)

Zelený, Martin; Straka, Ladislav; Sozinov, Alexei; Heczko, Oleg

2018-05-08

In order to explain the formation of low-temperature phases in stoichiometric Ni 2 MnGa magnetic shape memory alloy, we investigate the phase transformation paths from cubic austenite with Heusler structure to low-symmetry martensitic structures. We used ab initio calculations combined with the generalized solid state nudged elastic band method to determine the minimum energy path and corresponding changes in crystal lattice. The four-, five-, and seven-layered modulated phases of martensite (4O, 10M, and 14M) are built as the relaxed nanotwinned non-modulated (NM) phase. Despite having a total energy larger than the other martensitic phases, the 10M phase will spontaneously form at 0 K, because there is no energy barrier on the path and the energy decreases with a large negative slope. Moreover, a similar negative slope in the beginning of path is found also for the transformation to the 6M premartensite, which appears as a local minimum on the path leading further to 10M martensite. Transformation paths to other structures exhibit more or less significant barriers in the beginning hindering such a transformation from austenite. These findings correspond to experiment and demonstrates that the kinetics of the transformation is decisive for the selection of the particular low-symmetry structure.

Magnetic and thermodynamic properties of Heusler alloys Ni55Mn26Al19

Science.gov (United States)

Ito, Masakazu; Onda, Keijiro; Taira, Atsushi; Sonoda, Kazuki; Hiroi, Masahiko; Uwatoko, Yoshiya

2018-05-01

The temperature dependence of magnetization, M(T), specific heat, Cp(T), and thermal expansion, ΔL/L300K(T) were investigated for the Heusler compound Ni55Mn26Al19 with B2 structure. M(T) has a cusp-type anomaly for the antiferromagnetic (AF) transition at the Néel temperature TN = 280 K that is irreversible between the field-cooled and zero-field-cooled processes below Tf ˜ 60 K, which is characteristic of spin glass. Cp(T) also has an anomaly at TN = 280 K. For temperatures T transformation. TN increases proportionally with pressure, P, because of the enhancement of the AF interaction. The value of its initial rate is estimated to be d/TN d P = 5.25 K/GPa. Tf also increases proportionally with P with d/Tf d P = 2.21 K/GPa, and hence magnetic frustration, which promotes the spin glass system, is enhanced under pressurization.

Optical anisotropy and domain structure of multiferroic Ni-Mn-Ga and Co-Ni-Ga Heusler-type alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ivanova, A I; Gasanov, O V; Kaplunova, E I; Grechishkin, R M; Kalimullina, E T; Zalyotov, A B

2015-01-01

A study is made of the reflectance anisotropy of martensitic and magnetic domains in ferromagnetic shape memory alloys (FSMA) Ni-Mn-Ga and Co-Ni-Ga. The reflectance of metallographic sections of these alloys was measured in the visible with the aid of standard inverted polarized light microscope with a 360° rotatable specimen stage. Calculations are presented for the estimation of image contrast values between neighboring martensite twins. Qualitative and quantitative observations and angular measurements in reflected polarized light proved to be useful for the analysis of specific features of the martensite microstructure of multiferroic materials

Electronic structure and physical properties of Heusler compounds for thermoelectric and spintronic applications

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ouardi, Siham

2012-01-01

This thesis focuses on synthesis as well as investigations of the electronic structure and properties of Heusler compounds for spintronic and thermoelectric applications. The first part reports on the electronic and crystal structure as well as the mechanical, magnetic, and transport properties of the polycrystalline Heusler compound Co 2 MnGe. The crystalline structure was examined in detail by extended X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy and anomalous X-ray diffraction. The low-temperature magnetic moment agrees well with the Slater-Pauling rule and indicates a half-metallic ferromagnetic state of the compound, as is predicted by ab-initio calculations. Transport measurements and hard X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (HAXPES) were performed to explain the electronic structure of the compound. A major part of the thesis deals with a systematical investigation of Heusler compounds for thermoelectric applications. This thesis focuses on the search for new p-type Heusler compounds with high thermoelectric efficiency. The substitutional series NiTi 1-x M x Sn (where M=Sc, V and 0 0.26 Sc 0.04 Zr 0.35 Hf 0.35 Sn. HAXPES valence band measurement show massive in gap states for the parent compounds NiTiSn, CoTiSb and NiTi 0.3 Zr 0.35 Hf 0.35 Sn. This proves that the electronic states close to the Fermi energy play a key role for the behavior of the transport properties. Furthermore, the electronic structure of the gapless Heusler compounds PtYSb, PtLaBi and PtLuSb were investigated by bulk sensitive HAXPES. The linear behavior of the spectra close to εF proves the bulk origin of Dirac-cone type density of states. Furthermore, a systematic study on the optical and transport properties of PtYSb is presented. The compound exhibits promising thermoelectric properties with a high figure of merit (ZT=0.2) and a Hall mobility μh of 300 cm 2 /Vs at 350 K. The last part of this thesis describes the linear dichroism in angular-resolved photoemission from the valence band

Magnetic, transport, and magnetocaloric properties of boron doped Ni-Mn-In alloys

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Pandey, S.; Quetz, A.; Aryal, A.; Dubenko, I.; Ali, N. [Department of Physics, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, Illinois 62902 (United States); Rodionov, I. D.; Blinov, M. I.; Titov, I. S.; Prudnikov, V. N.; Granovsky, A. B. [Faculty of Physics, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow 119991 (Russian Federation); Stadler, S. [Department of Physics and Astronomy, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70803 (United States)

2015-05-14

The impact of B substitution in Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 35}In{sub 15−x}B{sub x} Heusler alloys on the structural, magnetic, transport, and parameters of the magnetocaloric effect (MCE) has been studied by means of room-temperature X-ray diffraction and thermomagnetic measurements (in magnetic fields (H) up to 5 T, and in the temperature interval 5–400 K). Direct adiabatic temperature change (ΔT{sub AD}) measurements have been carried out for an applied magnetic field change of 1.8 T. The transition temperatures (T-x) phase diagram has been constructed for H = 0.005 T. The MCE parameters were found to be comparable to those observed in other MCE materials such as Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 34.8}In{sub 14.2}B and Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 35}In{sub 14}X (X=In, Al, and Ge) Heusler alloys. The maximum absolute value of ΔT{sub AD} = 2.5 K was observed at the magnetostructural transition for Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 35}In{sub 14.5}B{sub 0.5}.

Electronic structure and physical properties of Heusler compounds for thermoelectric and spintronic applications

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ouardi, Siham

2012-03-19

This thesis focuses on synthesis as well as investigations of the electronic structure and properties of Heusler compounds for spintronic and thermoelectric applications. The first part reports on the electronic and crystal structure as well as the mechanical, magnetic, and transport properties of the polycrystalline Heusler compound Co{sub 2}MnGe. The crystalline structure was examined in detail by extended X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy and anomalous X-ray diffraction. The low-temperature magnetic moment agrees well with the Slater-Pauling rule and indicates a half-metallic ferromagnetic state of the compound, as is predicted by ab-initio calculations. Transport measurements and hard X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (HAXPES) were performed to explain the electronic structure of the compound. A major part of the thesis deals with a systematical investigation of Heusler compounds for thermoelectric applications. This thesis focuses on the search for new p-type Heusler compounds with high thermoelectric efficiency. The substitutional series NiTi{sub 1-x}M{sub x}Sn (where M=Sc, V and 0Heusler compound. The pure compounds showed n-type behavior, while under Sc substitution the system switched to p-type behavior. A maximum Seebeck coefficient of +230 {mu}V/K (350 K) was obtained for NiTi{sub 0.26}Sc{sub 0.04}Zr{sub 0.35}Hf{sub 0.35}Sn. HAXPES valence band measurement show massive in gap states for the parent compounds NiTiSn, CoTiSb and NiTi{sub 0.3}Zr{sub 0.35}Hf{sub 0.35}Sn. This proves that the electronic states close to the Fermi energy play a key role for the behavior of the transport properties. Furthermore, the electronic structure of the gapless Heusler compounds PtYSb, PtLaBi and PtLuSb were investigated by bulk

Predictive calculation of phase formation in Al-rich Al-Zn-Mg-Cu-Sc-Zr alloys using a thermodynamic Mg-alloy database

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Groebner, J.; Rokhlin, L.L.; Dobatkina, T.V.; Schmid-Fetzer, R.

2007-01-01

Three series of Al-rich alloys in the system Al-Zn-Mg-Cu-Sc-Zr and the subsystems Al-Zn-Mg-Cu-Sc and Al-Zn-Mg-Sc were studied by thermodynamic calculations. Phase formation was compared with experimental data obtained by DTA and microstructural analysis. Calculated phase diagrams, phase amount charts and enthalpy charts together with non-equilibrium calculations under Scheil conditions reveal significant details of the complex phase formation. This enables consistent and correct interpretation of thermal analysis data. Especially the interpretation of liquidus temperature and primary phase is prone to be wrong without using this tool of computational thermodynamics. All data are predictions from a thermodynamic database developed for Mg-alloys and not a specialized Al-alloy database. That provides support for a reasonable application of this database for advanced Mg-alloys beyond the conventional composition ranges

Predictive calculation of phase formation in Al-rich Al-Zn-Mg-Cu-Sc-Zr alloys using a thermodynamic Mg-alloy database

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Groebner, J. [Institute of Metallurgy, Clausthal University of Technology, Robert-Koch Strasse 42, D-38678 Clausthal-Zellerfeld (Germany); Rokhlin, L.L. [Baikov Institute of Metallurgy and Materials Science, Leninsky prosp. 49, 119991 GSP-1, Moscow (Russian Federation); Dobatkina, T.V. [Baikov Institute of Metallurgy and Materials Science, Leninsky prosp. 49, 119991 GSP-1, Moscow (Russian Federation); Schmid-Fetzer, R. [Institute of Metallurgy, Clausthal University of Technology, Robert-Koch Strasse 42, D-38678 Clausthal-Zellerfeld (Germany)]. E-mail: schmid-fetzer@tu-clausthal.de

2007-05-16

Three series of Al-rich alloys in the system Al-Zn-Mg-Cu-Sc-Zr and the subsystems Al-Zn-Mg-Cu-Sc and Al-Zn-Mg-Sc were studied by thermodynamic calculations. Phase formation was compared with experimental data obtained by DTA and microstructural analysis. Calculated phase diagrams, phase amount charts and enthalpy charts together with non-equilibrium calculations under Scheil conditions reveal significant details of the complex phase formation. This enables consistent and correct interpretation of thermal analysis data. Especially the interpretation of liquidus temperature and primary phase is prone to be wrong without using this tool of computational thermodynamics. All data are predictions from a thermodynamic database developed for Mg-alloys and not a specialized Al-alloy database. That provides support for a reasonable application of this database for advanced Mg-alloys beyond the conventional composition ranges.

Quality of Heusler single crystals examined by depth-dependent positron annihilation techniques

Science.gov (United States)

Hugenschmidt, C.; Bauer, A.; Böni, P.; Ceeh, H.; Eijt, S. W. H.; Gigl, T.; Pfleiderer, C.; Piochacz, C.; Neubauer, A.; Reiner, M.; Schut, H.; Weber, J.

2015-06-01

Heusler compounds exhibit a wide range of different electronic ground states and are hence expected to be applicable as functional materials in novel electronic and spintronic devices. Since the growth of large and defect-free Heusler crystals is still challenging, single crystals of Fe2TiSn and Cu2MnAl were grown by the optical floating zone technique. Two positron annihilation techniques—angular correlation of annihilation radiation and Doppler broadening spectroscopy (DBS)—were applied in order to study both the electronic structure and lattice defects. Recently, we succeeded to observe clearly the anisotropy of the Fermi surface of Cu2MnAl, whereas the spectra of Fe2TiSn were disturbed by foreign phases. In order to estimate the defect concentration in different samples of Heusler compounds, the positron diffusion length was determined by DBS using a monoenergetic positron beam.

Noncollinear magnetism in Mn{sub 2}RhSn Heusler compound

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Meshcheriakova, Olga

2014-09-15

Heusler compounds is a large class of materials, which exhibits diverse fundamental phenomena, together with the possibility of their specific tailoring for various engineering demands. Present work discusses the magnetic noncollinearity in the family of noncentrosymmetric ferrimagnetic Mn{sub 2}-based Heusler compounds. Based on the obtained experimental and theoretical results, Mn{sub 2}YZ Heusler family is suspected to provide promising candidates for the formation of the skyrmion lattice. The work is focused on Mn{sub 2}RhSn bulk polycrystalline sample, which serves as a prototype. It crystallizes in the tetragonal noncentrosymmetric structure (No. 119, I anti 4m2), which enables the anisotropic Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya (DM) exchange coupling. Additional short-range modulation, induced by the competing nearest and next-nearest interplanes Heisenberg exchange, is suppressed above the 80 K. This allows to develop the long-range modulations in the ideal ferrimagnetic structure within the ab crystallographic planes, and thus, favors to the occurrence of the skyrmion lattice within the temperature range of (80≤T≤ 270) K. The studies of Mn{sub 2}RhSn were expanded to the broad composition range and continued on thin film samples.

Effect of hydrostatic pressure on magnetization of Ni.sub.2+x./sub.Mn.sub.1-x./sub.Ga alloys

Czech Academy of Sciences Publication Activity Database

Kamarád, Jiří; Albertini, F.; Arnold, Zdeněk; Casoli, F.; Pareti, L.; Paoluzi, A.

290-291, - (2005), s. 669-672 ISSN 0304-8853 R&D Projects: GA ČR(CZ) GA202/02/0739 Institutional research plan: CEZ:AV0Z10100521 Keywords : magnetization- pressure dependent * Heusler alloys * pressure effect Subject RIV: BM - Solid Matter Physics ; Magnetism Impact factor: 0.985, year: 2005

First-principles study of mechanical, exchange interactions and the robustness in Co{sub 2}MnSi full Heusler compounds

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Akriche, A., E-mail: akricheahmed@gmail.com [Laboratoire de Microscope Electronique et Sciences des Matériaux, Université d’Oran des Sciences et de la Technologie-USTO, Mohamed Boudiaf, Faculté de physique, Département de Génie Physique, Oran (Algeria); Bouafia, H. [Laboratoire de Génie Physique, Université Ibn-Khaldoun, Tiaret 14000 (Algeria); Hiadsi, S. [Laboratoire de Microscope Electronique et Sciences des Matériaux, Université d’Oran des Sciences et de la Technologie-USTO, Mohamed Boudiaf, Faculté de physique, Département de Génie Physique, Oran (Algeria); Abidri, B. [Laboratoire des Matériaux Magnétiques, Université Djillali Liabés, Sidi Bel-Abbes (Algeria); Sahli, B. [Laboratoire de Génie Physique, Université Ibn-Khaldoun, Tiaret 14000 (Algeria); Elchikh, M.; Timaoui, M.A.; Djebour, B. [Laboratoire de Microscope Electronique et Sciences des Matériaux, Université d’Oran des Sciences et de la Technologie-USTO, Mohamed Boudiaf, Faculté de physique, Département de Génie Physique, Oran (Algeria)

2017-01-15

In this work we report the results of ab-initio studies of structural, mechanical, electronic and magnetic properties of Co based Co{sub 2}MnSi Heusler compound in stoichiometric composition. All of which are accurately calculated by the full-potential (FP-LMTO) program combined with the spin polarized generalized gradient approximation in the density functional formalism (DFT). The total energy calculations clearly favor the ferromagnetic ground state. The lattice parameter, elastic constants and their related parameters were also evaluated and compared to experimental and theoretical values whenever possible. In this paper, the electronic properties are treated with GGA+U approach. The magnetic exchange constants temperature has been calculated using a mean field-approximation (MFA). The half-metal to metal transition was observed around 40 GPa. Increasing pressure has no impact on the total magnetic moment or the overall shape of the band structure that indicates the robustness of the electronic structure of this system. - Highlights: • In this work, we have studied some physical properties of Co{sub 2}MnSi Heusler compound. • The exchange-correlation energy is treated within GGA and (GGA+U) approximation. • The electronic band structure shows that Co{sub 2}MnSi is a half-metallic compound.

Theoretical calculations of the surface tension of Ag(1-x)-Cu(x) liquid alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Aqra, Fathi; Ayyad, Ahmed

2011-01-01

Highlights: → A thermodynamic model for calculating the surface tension, and its temperature and composition dependences, of liquid binary alloys is described. → The model does not require the prior knowledge of the surface concentration and Gibbs energy. → The surface tension of the liquid Ag-Cu binary alloys has been calculated as a function of temperature and concentration. → The calculated values agree well with existing experimental data. - Abstract: The surface tension of silver-copper binary liquid alloys is calculated, in the frame work of Eyring theory. The calculations were made for different compositions (mole fraction, x Cu = 0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8 and 1), in the temperature range 1100-1800 K. The surface tension decreases with temperature increase, at a fixed copper fraction x Cu , and increases with increasing copper content. The calculated results are appropriately compared with existing literature data.

Effect of alloying elements on the stability of Ni2M in Alloy690 based upon thermodynamic calculation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Horiuchi, Toshiaki; Kuwano, Kazuhiro; Satoh, Naohiro

2012-01-01

Some researchers recently point out that Ni based alloys used in nuclear power plants have the ordering tendency, which is a potential to decrease mechanical properties within the expected lifetime of the plants. In the present study, authors evaluated the effect of 8 alloying elements on the ordering tendency in Alloy690 based upon thermodynamic calculation by Thermo-Calc. It is clarified that the additive amount of Fe, Cr, Ti and Si, particularly Fe and Cr, was influential for the stability of Ni 2 M, while that of Mn, Cu, B and C had almost no effect for that. Authors therefore designed the Ni 2 M stabilized alloy by no addition of Fe in Alloy690. Ni 2 M is estimated to be stable even at 773 K in the Ni 2 M stabilized alloy. The influence by long range ordering or precipitating of Ni 2 M in Alloy690 for mechanical properties or SCC susceptibility is expected to be clarified by the sample obtained in the present study. (author)

Electronic, magnetic and transport properties of quaternary (Cu,Ni)MnSb alloys

Czech Academy of Sciences Publication Activity Database

Kudrnovský, Josef; Drchal, Václav; Máca, František; Turek, Ilja

2008-01-01

Roč. 88, 18-20 (2008), s. 2739-2746 ISSN 1478-6435 R&D Projects: GA ČR GA202/07/0456; GA MŠk OC 150; GA AV ČR IAA100100616 Institutional research plan: CEZ:AV0Z10100520; CEZ:AV0Z20410507 Keywords : density functional theory * exchange interaction * effective Heisenberg model * magnetic disorder * Curie temperature * quaternary Heusler alloys Subject RIV: BM - Solid Matter Physics ; Magnetism Impact factor: 1.384, year: 2008

Effects of the thermal and magnetic paths on first order martensite transition of disordered Ni45Mn44Sn9In2 Heusler alloy exhibiting a giant magnetocaloric effect and magnetoresistance near room temperature

Science.gov (United States)

Chabri, T.; Ghosh, A.; Nair, Sunil; Awasthi, A. M.; Venimadhav, A.; Nath, T. K.

2018-05-01

The existence of a first order martensite transition in off-stoichiometric Ni45Mn44Sn9In2 ferromagnetic shape memory Heusler alloy has been clearly observed by thermal, magnetic, and magneto-transport measurements. Field and thermal path dependence of the change in large magnetic entropy and negative magnetoresistance are observed, which originate due to the sharp change in magnetization driven by metamagnetic transition from the weakly magnetic martensite phase to the ferromagnetic austenite phase in the vicinity of the martensite transition. The noticeable shift in the martensite transition with the application of a magnetic field is the most significant feature of the present study. This shift is due to the interplay of the austenite and martensite phase fraction in the alloy. The different aspects of the first order martensite transition, e.g. broadening of the martensite transition and the field induced arrest of the austenite phase are mainly related to the dynamics of coexisting phases in the vicinity of the martensite transition. The alloy also shows a second order ferromagnetic  →  paramagnetic transition near the Curie temperature of the austenite phase. A noticeably large change in magnetic entropy (ΔS M   =  24 J kg‑1 K‑1 at 298 K) and magnetoresistance (=  ‑33% at 295 K) has been observed for the change in 5 and 8 T magnetic fields, respectively. The change in adiabatic temperature for the change in a magnetic field of 5 T is found to be  ‑3.8 K at 299 K. The low cost of the ingredients and the large change in magnetic entropy very near to the room temperature makes Ni45Mn44Sn9In2 alloy a promising magnetic refrigerant for real technological application.

Thin film Heusler compounds manganese nickel gallium

Science.gov (United States)

Jenkins, Catherine Ann

Multiferroic Heusler compounds Mn3--xNi xGa (x=0,1,2) have a tetragonal unit cell that can variously be used for magneto-mechanically coupled shape memory ( x=1,2) and spin-mechanical applications (x=0). The first fabrication of fully epitaxial thin films of these and electronically related compounds by sputtering is discussed. Traditional and custom lab characterization of the magnetic and temperature driven multiferroic behavior is augmented by more detailed synchrotron-based high energy photoemission spectroscopic techniques to describe the atomic and electronic structure. Integration of the MnNi2Ga magnetic shape memory compound in microwave patch antennas and active free-standing structures represents a fraction of the available and promising applications for these compounds. Prototype magnetic tunnel junctions are demonstrated by Mn3Ga electrodes with perpendicular anisotropy for spin torque transfer memory structures. The main body of the work concentrates on the definition and exploration of the material series Mn3--xNi xGa (x=0,1,2) and the relevant multiferroic phenomena exhibited as a function of preparation and external stimuli. Engineering results on each x=0,1,2 are presented with device prototypes where relevant. In the appendices the process of the materials design undertaken with the goal of developing new ternary intermetallics with enhanced properties is presented with a full exploration of the road from band structure calculations to device implementation. Cobalt based compounds in single crystal and nanoparticle form are fabricated with an eye to developing the production methods for new cobalt- and iron-based magnetic shape memory compounds for device applications in different forms. Mn2CoSn, a compound isolectronic and with similar atomic ordering to Mn2NiGa is experimentally determined to be a nearly half-metallic ferromagnet in contrast to the metallic ferrimagnetism in the parent compound. High energy photoemission spectroscopy is shown to

Thermodynamic properties of Heusler Fe2VSi

Science.gov (United States)

Ito, Masakazu; Kai, Keita; Furuta, Tatsuya; Manaka, Hirotaka; Terada, Norio; Hiroi, Masahiko; Kondo, Akihiro; Kindo, Koichi

2018-05-01

We investigated temperature, T, dependence of magnetization, M(T), electrical resistivity, ρ(T), and specific heat, Cp(T), for the Heusler compound Fe2VSi. M(T) shows anomalies at TN1 ˜ 115 K and at TN2 ˜ 35 K. The anomaly at TN1 is caused by the magnetic transition with a crystal structural change. On the other hand, ρ(T) and Cp(T) show only anomaly at TN1, and no trace of anomaly at TN2 is observed. Because of the irreversibility of M(T), which is the characteristic of spin-glass freezing, appears below TN2, a spin-glass freezing may occur at TN2. From the analogy of the Heusler compound (Fe1-xVx ) 3Si with the cubic D03 crystal structure, (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.2), we suggested that the atomic disorder of V site by the Fe atoms gives rise to the magnetic frustration. This could be cause for the spin-glass freezing. By the Clausius-Clapeyron relation, pressure, P, derivative of TN1, (d/TN 1 d P ), is estimated to be ˜-10 K/Gpa.

High field magnetic behavior in Boron doped Fe{sub 2}VAl Heusler alloys

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Venkatesh, Ch., E-mail: venkyphysicsiitm@gmail.com [Department of Physics, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur (India); DCMP & MS, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Mumbai (India); Vasundhara, M., E-mail: vasu.mutta@gmail.com [Materials Science and Technology Division, National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology, CSIR, Trivandrum 695019 (India); Srinivas, V. [Department of Physics, Indian Institute of Technology, Chennai (India); Rao, V.V. [Cryogenic Engineering Centre, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur (India)

2016-11-15

We have investigated the magnetic behavior of Fe{sub 2}VAl{sub 1−x}B{sub x} (x=0, 0.03, 0.06 and 0.1) alloys under high temperature and high magnetic field conditions separately. Although, the low temperature DC magnetization data for the alloys above x>0 show clear magnetic transitions, the zero field cooled (ZFC) and field cooled (FC) curves indicate the presence of spin cluster like features. Further, critical exponent (γ) deduced from the initial susceptibility above the T{sub c}, does not agree with standard models derived for 3 dimensional long range magnetic systems. The deviation in γ values are consistent with the short range magnetic nature of these alloys. We further extend the analysis of magnetic behavior by carrying the magnetization measurements at high temperatures and high magnetic fields distinctly. We mainly emphasize the following observations; (i) The magnetic hysteresis loops show sharp upturns at lower fields even at 900 K for all the alloys. (ii) High temperature inverse susceptibility do not overlap until T=900 K, indicating the persistent short range magnetic correlations even at high temperatures. (iii) The Arrott's plot of magnetization data shows spontaneous moment (M{sub S}) for the x=0 alloy at higher magnetic fields which is absent at lower fields (<50 kOe), while the Boron doped samples show feeble M{sub S} at lower fields. The origin of this short range correlation is due to presence of dilute magnetic heterogeneous phases which are not detected from the X-ray diffraction method. - Highlights: • Short range magnetic character has been confirmed by the critical exponents analysis. • Magnetoresistace is about −14% with non-saturating tendency even at 150 kOe for Fe{sub 2}VAl alloy. • Boron doped Fe{sub 2}VAl alloys show a weak magnetism even at T=900 K.

Prospective high thermoelectric performance of the heavily p-doped half-Heusler compound CoVSn

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Shi, Hongliang; Ming, Wenmei; Parker, David S.; Du, Mao-Hua; Singh, David J.

2017-01-01

The electronic structure and transport properties of the half-Heusler compound CoVSn are studied in this paper systematically by combining first-principles electronic structure calculations and Boltzmann transport theory. The band structure at the valence-band edge is complex with multiple maxima derived from hybridized transition element d states. The result is a calculated thermopower larger than 200 μV /Κ within a wide range of doping concentrations and temperatures for heavily doped p-type CoVSn. The thermoelectric properties additionally benefit from the corrugated shapes of the hole pockets in our calculated isoenergy surfaces. Our calculated power factor S"2σ/τ (with respect to an average unknown scattering time) of CoVSn is comparable to that of FeNbSb. A smaller lattice thermal conductivity can be expected from the smaller group velocities of acoustical modes compared to FeNbSb. Finally, overall, good thermoelectric performance for CoVSn can be expected by considering the electronic transport and lattice thermal conductivity.

Real-space calculations of nonspherically averaged charge densities for substitutionally disordered alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Singh, P.P.; Gonis, A.

1993-01-01

Based on screening transformations of muffin-tin orbitals introduced by Andersen and Jepsen [Phys. Rev. Lett. 53, 2571 (1984)], we have developed a formalism for calculating the nonspherically averaged charge densities of substitutionally disordered alloys using the Korringa-Kohn-Rostoker coherent-potential-approximation (KKR CPA) method in the atomic-sphere approximation (ASA). We have validated our method by calculating charge densities for ordered structures, where we find that our approach yields charge densities that are essentially indistinguishable from the results of full-potential methods. Calculations and comparisons are reported for Si, Al, and Li. For substitutionally disordered alloys, where full-potential methods have not been implemented so far, our approach can be used to calculate reliable nonspherically averaged charge densities from spherically symmetric one-electron potentials obtained from the KKR-ASA CPA. We report on our study of differences in charge density between ordered AlLi in the L1 0 phase and substitutionally disordered Al 0.5 Li 0.5 on a face-centered-cubic lattice

Elastic and thermo-physical properties of TiC, TiN, and their intermediate composition alloys using ab initio calculations

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kim, Jiwoong; Kang, Shinhoo

2012-01-01

Highlights: ► Elastic properties of TiC, TiN and their alloys were calculated by ab initio calculations. ► Debye temperature and Gruneisen constant of TiC, TiN and their alloys were calculated as a function of nitrogen content. ► Thermo-physical properties were calculated as a function of nitrogen content. ► Thermal expansion of the alloys was fitted in different temperature range. - Abstract: The equilibrium lattice parameters, elastic properties, material brittleness, heat capacities, and thermal expansion coefficients of TiC, TiN, and their intermediate composition alloys (Ti(C 1−x N x ), x = 0.25, 0.5, and 0.75) were calculated using ab initio density functional theory (DFT) methods. We employed the Debye–Gruneisen model to calculate a finite temperature heat capacity and thermal expansion coefficient. The calculated elastic moduli and thermal expansion coefficients agreed well with the experimental data and with other DFT calculations. Accurate heat capacities of TiC, TiN, and their intermediate composition alloys were obtained by calculating not only the phonon contributions but also the electron contributions to the heat capacity. Our calculations indicated that the heat capacity differences between each composition originated mainly from the electronic contributions.

Calculation of the thermodynamic properties of liquid Ag–In–Sb alloys

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

DRAGANA ZIVKOVIC

2006-03-01

Full Text Available The results of calculations of the thermodynamic properties of liquid Ag–In–Sb alloys are presented in this paper. The Redlich–Kister–Muggianu model was used for the calculations. Based on known thermodynamic data for constitutive binary systems and available experimental data for the investigated ternary system, the ternary interaction parameter for the liquid phase in the temperature range 1000–1200 K was determined. Comparison between experimental and calculated results showed their good mutual agreement.

Comparing magnetostructural transitions in Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 18.75}Cu{sub 6.25}Ga{sub 25} and Ni{sub 49.80}Mn{sub 34.66}In{sub 15.54} Heusler alloys

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Dubenko, Igor [Department of Physics, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL 62901 (United States); Granovsky, Alexander [Faculty of Physics, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow 119991 (Russian Federation); Lahderanta, Erkki [Lappeenranta University of Technology, 53851 (Finland); Kashirin, Maxim; Makagonov, Vladimir [Voronezh State Technical University, Voronezh 394026 (Russian Federation); Aryal, Anil; Quetz, Abdiel; Pandey, Sudip [Department of Physics, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL 62901 (United States); Rodionov, Igor [Faculty of Physics, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow 119991 (Russian Federation); Samanta, Tapas; Stadler, Shane [Department of Physics & Astronomy, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803 (United States); Mazumdar, Dipanjan, E-mail: dmazumdar@siu.edu [Department of Physics, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL 62901 (United States); Ali, Naushad [Department of Physics, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL 62901 (United States)

2016-03-01

The crystal structure, magnetic and transport properties, including resistivity and thermopower, of Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 18.75}Cu{sub 6.25}Ga{sub 25} and Ni{sub 49.80}Mn{sub 34.66}In{sub 15.54} Heusler alloys were studied in the (10–400) K temperature interval. We show that their physical properties are remarkably different, thereby pointing to different origin of their magnetostructural transition (MST). A Seebeck coefficient (S) was found to pass minimum of about −20 µV/K in respect of temperature for both compounds. It was shown that MST observed for both compounds results in jump-like changes in S for Ga-based compound and jump in resistivity of about 20 and 200 µΩ cm for Ga and In –based compounds, respectively. The combined analyzes of the present results with that from literature show that the density of states at the Fermi level does not change strongly at the MST in the case of Ni–Mn–In alloys as compared to that of Ni–Mn–Ga. - Graphical abstract: Temperature dependencies of resistivity for Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 18.75}Cu{sub 6.25}Ga{sub 25} and Ni{sub 49.80}Mn{sub 34.66}In{sub 15.54} obtained on heating (open symbols) and cooling (closed symbols). Arrows indicate the temperature of direct (T{sub M}) and inverse (T{sub A}) martensitic transitions and ferromagnetic ordering of the austenitic (T{sub C}) and martensitic (T{sub CM}) phases. The T{sub CM}=T{sub A}/T{sub M} in the case of Ga-based alloy. - Highlights: • Magnetostructural transitions (MST) in two compounds with same parent material. • The figure exemplifies how sensitive MST properties are to the density of states. • Proper understanding is required for utilizing these multifunctional materials.

The structural, electronic, magnetic and optical properties of the half-metallic binary alloys ZCl3 (Z=Be, Mg, Ca, Sr): A first-principles study

Science.gov (United States)

Song, Jun-Tao; Zhang, Jian-Min

2018-06-01

The investigations of the electronic and magnetic properties show the binary Heusler alloys ZCl3 (Z = Be, Mg, Ca, Sr) are half-metallic (HM) ferromagnets with an integer magnetic moment (Mt) of 1 μB /f.u.. The alloy BeCl3 is thermodynamic meta-stable, while other alloys are thermodynamic stable according to their cohesive energies and formation energies. Moreover, wide HM regions for alloys ZCl3 (Z = Be, Mg, Ca, Sr) show their HM characters are robust when the lattices are expanded or compressed under uniform and tetragonal strains. Finally, some optical properties are analyzed in detail, such as the dielectric function, the absorption coefficient, the refractive index and the extinction coefficient.

Half-heusler alloys with enhanced figure of merit and methods of making

Science.gov (United States)

Ren, Zhifeng; Yan, Xiao; Joshi, Giri; Chen, Shuo; Chen, Gang; Poudel, Bed; Caylor, James Christopher

2015-06-02

Thermoelectric materials and methods of making thermoelectric materials having a nanometer mean grain size less than 1 micron. The method includes combining and arc melting constituent elements of the thermoelectric material to form a liquid alloy of the thermoelectric material and casting the liquid alloy of the thermoelectric material to form a solid casting of the thermoelectric material. The method also includes ball milling the solid casting of the thermoelectric material into nanometer mean size particles and sintering the nanometer size particles to form the thermoelectric material having nanometer scale mean grain size.

Electronic, phonon and superconducting properties of LaPtBi half-Heusler compound

Science.gov (United States)

Shrivastava, Deepika; Sanyal, Sankar P.

2018-05-01

In the framework of density functional theory based on plane wave pseudopotential method and linear response technique, we have studied the electronic, phonon and superconducting properties of LaPtBi half-Heusler compound. The electronic band structure and density of states show that it is gapless semiconductor which is consistent with previous results. The positive phonon frequencies confirm the stability of this compound in cubic MgAgAs phase. Superconductivity is studied in terms of Eliashberg spectral function (α2F(ω)), electron-phonon coupling constants (λ). The value of electron-phonon coupling parameter is found to be 0.41 and the superconducting transition temperature is calculated to be 0.76 K, in excellent agreement with the experimentally reported values.

Use of thermodynamic calculation to predict the effect of Si on the ageing behavior of Al-Mg-Si-Cu alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ji, Yanli; Zhong, Hao; Hu, Ping; Guo, Fuan

2011-01-01

Research highlights: → Thermodynamic calculation can predict the ageing behavior of 6xxx alloys. → The hardness level of the alloys depends on the Si content in as-quenched matrix. → The precipitation strengthening effect depends on the Mg 2 Si level of the alloys. -- Abstract: Thermodynamic calculation was employed to predict the influence of Si content on the ageing behavior of Al-Mg-Si-Cu alloys. In addition, experiments were carried out to verify the predictions. The results show that thermodynamic calculation can predict the effect of Si content on the ageing behavior of the studied alloys. This study further proposes that the hardness level of alloys during ageing is directly related to the Si content in the as-quenched supersaturated solution, while the precipitation strengthening effect is directly related to the Mg 2 Si level of the alloys.

Composition and temperature dependence of twinning stress in non-modulated martensite of Ni-Mn-Ga-Co-Cu magnetic shape memory alloys

Czech Academy of Sciences Publication Activity Database

Soroka, A.; Sozinov, A.; Lanska, N.; Rameš, Michal; Straka, Ladislav; Ullakko, K.

2018-01-01

Roč. 144, Feb (2018), s. 52-55 ISSN 1359-6462 R&D Projects: GA ČR GA16-00043S Institutional support: RVO:68378271 Keywords : Heusler phases * martensite * ferromagnetic shape memory alloy * magnetic shape memory * twinning Subject RIV: BM - Solid Matter Physics ; Magnetism OBOR OECD: Condensed matter physics (including formerly solid state physics, supercond.) Impact factor: 3.747, year: 2016

Electronic structure, magnetic and transport properties of the Heusler shape memory alloy Mn{sub 2}NiGa

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Blum, C.G.F. [Institute of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry, Johannes Gutenberg - University, Mainz (Germany); Institute of Solid State Research, IFW Dresden, D-01171 Dresden (Germany); Ouardi, S.; Fecher, G.H.; Balke, B.; Felser, C. [Institute of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry, Johannes Gutenberg - University, Mainz (Germany); Wurmehl, S.; Buechner, B. [Institute of Solid State Research, IFW Dresden, D-01171 Dresden (Germany); Ueda, S.; Kobayashi, K. [NIMS Beamline Station, National Institute for Materials Science, Hyogo 679-5148, Japan. (Germany)

2011-07-01

Magnetic shape memory based on Heusler compounds have received increasing interest, due their potential use for actuator and sensor applications. The single crystals Mn{sub 2}NiGa were grown by the optical floating zone method using a image furnace with vertical setup under a purified argon atmosphere. The both cubic (austenite) and tetragonal (martensite) phases of the sample were determined using temperature dependence powder x-ray diffraction XRD. The effect of martensitic transitions on the magnetic and transport properties of the compound was investigated by measuring the saturation magnetization, electrical resistivity {rho}(T), the Seebeck coefficient S(T) and magnetoresistance R{sub M}. All measurements detect clear signatures of the martensitic transition around room temperature with a thermal hysteresis up to 30 K. The electronic structures of the martensitic as well the austenitic phase were investigated using bulk-sensitive hard X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (HAXPES).

Half-Heusler compounds with a 1 eV (1.7 eV) direct band gap, lattice-matched to GaAs (Si), for solar cell application: A first-principles study

KAUST Repository

Belmiloud, N.; Boutaiba, F.; Belabbes, Abderrezak; Ferhat, M.; Bechstedt, F.

2016-01-01

-Heusler compounds ScAgC, YCuC, CaZnC, NaAgO, and LiCuS are studied by density functional theory for potential applications in multi-junction solar cells. The calculated formation enthalpies indicate that these materials are thermodynamically stable. Using state

The effect of boron concentration on the structure and elastic properties of Ru-Ir alloys: first-principles calculations

Science.gov (United States)

Li, Xiaolong; Zhou, Zhaobo; Hu, Riming; Zhou, Xiaolong; Yu, Jie; Liu, Manmen

2018-04-01

The Phase stability, electronic structure, elastic properties and hardness of Ru-Ir alloys with different B concentration were investigated by first principles calculations. The calculated formation enthaplies and cohesive energies show that these compounds are all thermodynamically stable. Information on electronic structure indicates that they possess metallic characteristic and Ru-Ir-B alloys were composed of the Ru-B and Ir-B covalent bond. The elastic properties were calculated, which included bulk modulus, shear modulus, Young’s modulus, Poisson’s ratio and hardness. The calculated results reveal that the plastic of Ru-Ir-B alloys increase with the increase of the content of B atoms, but the hardness of Ru-Ir-B alloys have no substantial progress with the increase of the content of B atoms. However, it is interesting that the hardness of the Ru-Ir-B compound was improved obviously as the B content was higher than 18 atoms because of a phase structure transition.

119Sn Moessbauer spectroscopy in the magnetically diluted Heusler-type systems

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ruebenbauer, K.

1981-01-01

119 Sn Moessbauer investigations of the ferromagnetically diluted Nisub(2)Mnsub(x)Bsub(1-x)Sn(B=Ti, V) and Pdsub(2)Mnsub(x)Vsub(1-x)Sn Heusler-type systems have been performed and the results are reviewed and discussed. It has been found that distributions of the transferred hyperfine magnetic field as seen by a tin nucleus are very sensitive for a type of the local magnetic interaction in these simple ferromagnets, especially when studied versus the sample temperature. This sensitivity allows to reach some conclusions about the coupling mechanism between localised manganese magnetic moments. Namely, it is concluded that the interaction beyond the second neighbour shell is practically irrelevant for the magnetic ordering process. This very fact means that the free electron approach to the calculation of exchange integrals can not be applied for these particular systems. (Author)

Microstructural evolution and creep of Fe-Al-Ta alloys

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Prokopcakova, Petra; Svec, Martin [Technical University of Liberec (Czech Republic). Dept. of Material Science; Palm, Martin [Max-Planck-Institut fuer Eisenforschung GmbH, Duesseldorf (Germany). Structure and Nano-/Micromechanics of Materials

2016-05-15

The microstructural evolution in Fe-Al-Ta alloys containing 23 - 31 at.% Al and 1.5 - 2.2 at.% Ta has been studied in the temperature range 650 - 750 C by annealing for 1, 10, 100 and 1 000 h. The experiments confirm that in this temperature range the precipitation of the stable hexagonal C14 Laves phase is preceded by formation of coherent, metastable L2{sub 1} Heusler phase precipitates within the Fe-Al matrix. However, precipitates of C14 are observed after much shorter annealing times than previously assumed. Creep strength increases substantially with increasing Al content of the alloys because the solid solubility for Ta in the Fe-Al matrix increases with increasing Al content and solid-solution hardening contributes substantially to the observed high creep strength. It may therefore be that the microstructural changes during creep have no noticeable effect on creep strength.

Microstructural evolution and creep of Fe-Al-Ta alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Prokopcakova, Petra; Svec, Martin; Palm, Martin

2016-01-01

The microstructural evolution in Fe-Al-Ta alloys containing 23 - 31 at.% Al and 1.5 - 2.2 at.% Ta has been studied in the temperature range 650 - 750 C by annealing for 1, 10, 100 and 1 000 h. The experiments confirm that in this temperature range the precipitation of the stable hexagonal C14 Laves phase is preceded by formation of coherent, metastable L2 1 Heusler phase precipitates within the Fe-Al matrix. However, precipitates of C14 are observed after much shorter annealing times than previously assumed. Creep strength increases substantially with increasing Al content of the alloys because the solid solubility for Ta in the Fe-Al matrix increases with increasing Al content and solid-solution hardening contributes substantially to the observed high creep strength. It may therefore be that the microstructural changes during creep have no noticeable effect on creep strength.

Ferritic Alloys with Extreme Creep Resistance via Coherent Hierarchical Precipitates.

Science.gov (United States)

Song, Gian; Sun, Zhiqian; Li, Lin; Xu, Xiandong; Rawlings, Michael; Liebscher, Christian H; Clausen, Bjørn; Poplawsky, Jonathan; Leonard, Donovan N; Huang, Shenyan; Teng, Zhenke; Liu, Chain T; Asta, Mark D; Gao, Yanfei; Dunand, David C; Ghosh, Gautam; Chen, Mingwei; Fine, Morris E; Liaw, Peter K

2015-11-09

There have been numerous efforts to develop creep-resistant materials strengthened by incoherent particles at high temperatures and stresses in response to future energy needs for steam turbines in thermal-power plants. However, the microstructural instability of the incoherent-particle-strengthened ferritic steels limits their application to temperatures below 900 K. Here, we report a novel ferritic alloy with the excellent creep resistance enhanced by coherent hierarchical precipitates, using the integrated experimental (transmission-electron microscopy/scanning-transmission-electron microscopy, in-situ neutron diffraction, and atom-probe tomography) and theoretical (crystal-plasticity finite-element modeling) approaches. This alloy is strengthened by nano-scaled L21-Ni2TiAl (Heusler phase)-based precipitates, which themselves contain coherent nano-scaled B2 zones. These coherent hierarchical precipitates are uniformly distributed within the Fe matrix. Our hierarchical structure material exhibits the superior creep resistance at 973 K in terms of the minimal creep rate, which is four orders of magnitude lower than that of conventional ferritic steels. These results provide a new alloy-design strategy using the novel concept of hierarchical precipitates and the fundamental science for developing creep-resistant ferritic alloys. The present research will broaden the applications of ferritic alloys to higher temperatures.

Impact of local order and stoichiometry on the ultrafast magnetization dynamics of Heusler compounds

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Steil, Daniel; Schmitt, Oliver; Fetzer, Roman; Aeschlimann, Martin; Cinchetti, Mirko; Kubota, Takahide; Naganuma, Hiroshi; Oogane, Mikihiko; Ando, Yasuo; Rodan, Steven; Blum, Christian G F; Wurmehl, Sabine; Balke, Benjamin

2015-01-01

Nowadays, a wealth of information on ultrafast magnetization dynamics of thin ferromagnetic films exists in the literature. Information is, however, scarce on bulk single crystals, which may be especially important for the case of multi-sublattice systems. In Heusler compounds, representing prominent examples for such multi-sublattice systems, off-stoichiometry and degree of order can significantly change the magnetic properties of thin films, while bulk single crystals may be generally produced with a much more well-defined stoichiometry and a higher degree of ordering. A careful characterization of the local structure of thin films versus bulk single crystals combined with ultrafast demagnetization studies can, thus, help to understand the impact of stoichiometry and order on ultrafast spin dynamics.Here, we present a comparative study of the structural ordering and magnetization dynamics for thin films and bulk single crystals of the family of Heusler alloys with composition Co 2 Fe 1 − x Mn x Si. The local ordering is studied by 59 Co nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, while the time-resolved magneto-optical Kerr effect gives access to the ultrafast magnetization dynamics. In the NMR studies we find significant differences between bulk single crystals and thin films, both regarding local ordering and stoichiometry. The ultrafast magnetization dynamics, on the other hand, turns out to be mostly unaffected by the observed structural differences, especially on the time scale of some hundreds of femtoseconds. These results confirm hole-mediated spin-flip processes as the main mechanism for ultrafast demagnetization and the robustness of this demagnetization channel against defect states in the minority band gap as well as against the energetic position of the band gap with respect to the Fermi energy. The very small differences observed in the magnetization dynamics on the picosecond time-scale, on the other hand, can be explained by considering the

Coupled magnetostructural transition in Ni-Mn-V-Ga Heusler alloys and its effect on the magnetocaloric and transport properties

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Devarajan, U; Kannan, M; Thiyagarajan, R; Arumugam, S; Manivel Raja, M; Rama Rao, N V; Singh, Sanjay; Venkateshwarlu, D; Ganesan, V; Ohashi, M

2016-01-01

In the present work, the magnetocaloric and transport properties of Ni 2.2 Mn 0.72−x V x Ga 1.08 (x  =  0.0, 0.04, 0.08, 0.12) magnetic shape memory alloys are investigated. The alloys show a coupled magnetostructural transition from paramagnetic austenite to ferromagnetic martensite in a composition range of 0  ⩽  x  ⩽  0.08. For higher V substitution (x  =  0.12), the martensite transition is lower than the conventional ferromagnetic transition. Large magnetic entropy change values of about 12.4, 16.2 and 19 J kg −1 K −1 and corresponding refrigeration capacities of 60.6, 82.5, and 103 J kg −1 were observed for x  =  0, 0.04 and 0.08 alloys, respectively. The above two parameters linearly increase with increasing magnetic field. The indirect adiabatic temperature change calculated from the heat capacity measurement is found to be at its maximum for x  =  0.12 at H  =  8 T. The magnetoresistance is observed to increase from 0% (x  =  0.12) to 28% (x  =  0) at the maximum field of 8 T. The Sommerfeld coefficients are almost the same for the parent and a V-doped sample, which reveals a low free electron density, and the Debye coefficients decrease with an increase in V doping, confirming the phenomenon of electron–phonon scattering. The critical exponents at second order magnetic transition for x  = 0.12 are calculated as β  =  0.482, γ  =  1.056, δ  =  3.021, which agrees closely with mean field theory. (paper)

Quantum chemical analysis of binary and ternary ferromagnetic alloys; Quantenchemische Untersuchungen binaerer und ternaerer ferromagnetischer Legierungen

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Jacobs, Yasemin Erika Charlotte

2007-02-23

In this work the electronic structures, densities of states, chemical bonding, magnetic exchange Parameters and Curie temperatures of binary and ternary ferromagnetic alloys are analyzed. The electronic structure of ferromagnetic MnAl has been calculated using density-functional techniques (TB-LMTO-ASA, FPLAPW) and quantum chemically analyzed by means of the crystal orbital Hamilton population analysis. The crystal structure of the ferromagnetic tetragonal MnAl may be understood to originate from the structure of nonmagnetic cubic MnAl with a CsCl motif through a two-step process. While the nonmagnetic cubic structure is stable against a structural deformation, antibonding Mn-Mn interactions at the Fermi level lead to spin polarization and the onset of magnetism, i.e., a symmetry reduction taking place solely in the electronic degrees of freedom, by that emptying antibonding Mn-Mn states. Residual antibonding Al--Al states can only be removed by a subsequent, energetically smaller structural deformation towards the tetragonal system. As a final result, homonuclear bonding is strengthened and heteronuclear bonding is weakened. Corresponding DFT calculations of the electronic structure as well as the calculation of the chemical bonding and the magnetic exchange interactions have been performed on the basis of LDA and GGA for a series of ferromagnetic full Heusler alloys of general formula Co2MnZ (Z=Ga,Si,Ge,Sn), Rh2MnZ (Z=Ge,Sn,Pb), Ni2MnZ (Z=Ga,In,Sn), Pd2MnZ (Z=Sn,Sb) and Cu2MnZ (Z=Al,In,Sn). The connection between the electronic spectra and the magnetic interactions have been studied. Correlations between the chemical bondings in Heusler alloys derived from COHP analysis and magnetic phenomena are obvious, and different mechanisms leading to spin polarization and ferromagnetism are derived. The band dependence of the exchange parameters, their dependence on volume and valence electron concentration have been thoroughly analyzed within the Green function technique

Phase composition of Al-Ti-Nb-Mo γ alloys in the heat-treatment temperature range: Calculation and experiment

Science.gov (United States)

Belov, N. A.; Dashkevich, N. I.; Bel'tyukova, S. O.

2015-07-01

The phase composition of TNM-type Al-Ti-Nb-Mo γ alloys at heat-treatment temperatures is quantitatively studied using the Thermo-Calc program package and experimental methods. Isothermal cross sections are calculated and the joint influence of two alloying elements on the phase composition of the alloy is determined at the mean concentration of a third component. Based on the calculations of vertical cross sections, the boundaries of the four-phase eutectoid reaction α → α2 + β + γ are found. The temperature is shown to significantly influence the phase compositions of the γ alloys, among them the mass fractions of various phases (α, β, γ,α2) and the element concentration in them.

Temperature and pressure dependent structural and thermo-physical properties of quaternary CoVTiAl alloy

Science.gov (United States)

Yousuf, Saleem; Gupta, Dinesh C.

2017-09-01

Investigation of band structure and thermo-physical response of new quaternary CoVTiAl Heusler alloy within the frame work of density functional theory has been analyzed. 100% spin polarization with ferromagnetic stable ground state at the optimized lattice parameter of 6.01 Å is predicted for the compound. Slater-Pauling rule for the total magnetic moment of 3 μB and an indirect semiconducting behavior is also seen for the compound. In order to perfectly analyze the thermo-physical response, the lattice thermal conductivity and thermodynamic properties have been calculated. Thermal effects on some macroscopic properties of CoVTiAl are predicted using the quasi-harmonic Debye model, in which the lattice vibrations are taken into account. The variations of the lattice constant, volume expansion coefficient, heat capacities, and Debye temperature with pressure and temperature in the ranges of 0 GPa to 15 GPa and 0 K to 800 K have been obtained.

Band structure and thermoelectric properties of half-Heusler semiconductors from many-body perturbation theory

Science.gov (United States)

Zahedifar, Maedeh; Kratzer, Peter

2018-01-01

Various ab initio approaches to the band structure of A NiSn and A CoSb half-Heusler compounds (A = Ti, Zr, Hf) are compared and their consequences for the prediction of thermoelectric properties are explored. Density functional theory with the generalized-gradient approximation (GGA), as well as the hybrid density functional HSE06 and ab initio many-body perturbation theory in the form of the G W0 approach, are employed. The G W0 calculations confirm the trend of a smaller band gap (0.75 to 1.05 eV) in A NiSn compared to the A CoSb compounds (1.13 to 1.44 eV) already expected from the GGA calculations. While in A NiSn materials the G W0 band gap is 20% to 50% larger than in HSE06, the fundamental gap of A CoSb materials is smaller in G W0 compared to HSE06. This is because G W0 , similar to PBE, locates the valence band maximum at the L point of the Brillouin zone, whereas it is at the Γ point in the HSE06 calculations. The differences are attributed to the observation that the relative positions of the d levels of the transition metal atoms vary among the different methods. Using the calculated band structures and scattering rates taking into account the band effective masses at the extrema, the Seebeck coefficients, thermoelectric power factors, and figures of merit Z T are predicted for all six half-Heusler compounds. Comparable performance is predicted for the n -type A NiSn materials, whereas clear differences are found for the p -type A CoSb materials. Using the most reliable G W0 electronic structure, ZrCoSb is predicted to be the most efficient material with a power factor of up to 0.07 W/(K2 m) at a temperature of 600 K. We find strong variations among the different ab initio methods not only in the prediction of the maximum power factor and Z T value of a given material, but also in comparing different materials to each other, in particular in the p -type thermoelectric materials. Thus we conclude that the most elaborate, but also most costly G W0

The effect of a fourth element (Co, Cu, Fe, Pd) on the standard enthalpy of formation of the Heusler compound Ni{sub 2}MnSn

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Yin, Ming, E-mail: myin1@hawk.iit.edu; Nash, Philip

2016-05-15

The standard enthalpies of formation of quaternary Heusler compounds (X, Ni){sub 2}MnSn (X = Co, Cu, Fe, Pd) were investigated experimentally using high temperature direct reaction calorimetry. Lattice parameters of these compounds were determined using X-ray diffraction analysis. Microstructures were identified using scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy. The effect of an additional X element on the standard enthalpy of formation of the Heusler compound Ni{sub 2}MnSn is discussed. - Highlights: • Enthalpies of formation of (X,Ni){sub 2}YZ (X = Co, Cu, Fe, Pd) were measured by drop calorimeters. • Magnetic contribution to enthalpy of formation plays an important role. • Introducing a fourth element could stabilize an unstable Heusler structure. • Lattice parameters do not necessarily obey the Vegard's law. • It is possible to tailor properties of Heusler compounds with enough background information.

Magneto-electronic, thermal, and thermoelectric properties of some Co-based quaternary alloys

Science.gov (United States)

Bhat, Tahir Mohiuddin; Gupta, Dinesh C.

2018-01-01

In this study, quaternary Heusler alloys CoFeCrZ (Z = Si, As, Sb) were investigated based on the modified Becke-Johnson exchange potential. The electronic structures demonstrated that CoFeCrZ (Z = Si, As, Sb) alloys are completely spin polarized with indirect bandgap and has an integer magnetic moment according to the Slater-Pauling rule. Pugh's and Poisson's ratios showed that these materials are highly ductile with high melting temperatures. The thermal properties comprising the thermal expansion coefficient, heat capacity, and Grüneisen parameter were evaluated at various pressures from 0 to 20 GPa. The Grüneisen parameter values indicated the strong anharmonicity of the lattice vibrations that predominated in these compounds. We also studied the dependency of the thermoelectric transport properties on the temperature, i.e., the thermal conductivity and Seebeck coefficient. These alloys exhibited low lattice thermal conductivity and good Seebeck coefficients at room temperature. The half-metallic structures of these compounds with large band gaps and adequate Seebeck coefficients mean that they are suitable for use in spintronic and thermoelectric device applications.

Structural and magnetic stability of Fe2NiSi

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gupta, Dinesh C.; Bhat, Idris Hamid; Chauhan, Mamta

2014-01-01

Full-potential ab-initio calculations in the stable F-43m phase have been performed to investigate the structural and magnetic properties of Fe 2 NiSi inverse Heusler alloys. The spin magnetic moment distributions show that present material is ferromagnetic in stable F-43m phase. Further, spin resolved electronic structure calculations show that the discrepancy in magnetic moments of Fe-I and Fe-II depend upon the hybridization of Fe with the main group element. It is found that the main group electron concentration is predominantly responsible in establishing the magnetic properties, formation of magnetic moments and the magnetic order for present alloy

Structural and magnetic stability of Fe{sub 2}NiSi

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Gupta, Dinesh C., E-mail: idu.idris@gmail.com; Bhat, Idris Hamid, E-mail: idu.idris@gmail.com; Chauhan, Mamta, E-mail: idu.idris@gmail.com [Condensed Matter Theory Group, School of Studies in Physics, Jiwaji University, Gwalior - 474011 (India)

2014-04-24

Full-potential ab-initio calculations in the stable F-43m phase have been performed to investigate the structural and magnetic properties of Fe{sub 2}NiSi inverse Heusler alloys. The spin magnetic moment distributions show that present material is ferromagnetic in stable F-43m phase. Further, spin resolved electronic structure calculations show that the discrepancy in magnetic moments of Fe-I and Fe-II depend upon the hybridization of Fe with the main group element. It is found that the main group electron concentration is predominantly responsible in establishing the magnetic properties, formation of magnetic moments and the magnetic order for present alloy.

First-principles calculations of bulk and interfacial thermodynamic properties for fcc-based Al-Sc alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Asta, M.; Foiles, S.M.; Quong, A.A.

1998-01-01

The configurational thermodynamic properties of fcc-based Al-Sc alloys and coherent Al/Al 3 Sc interphase-boundary interfaces have been calculated from first principles. The computational approach used in this study combines the results of pseudopotential total-energy calculations with a cluster-expansion description of the alloy energetics. Bulk and interface configurational-thermodynamic properties are computed using a low-temperature-expansion technique. Calculated values of the {100} and {111} Al/Al 3 Sc interfacial energies at zero temperature are, respectively, 192 and 226mJ/m 2 . The temperature dependence of the calculated interfacial free energies is found to be very weak for {100} and more appreciable for {111} orientations; the primary effect of configurational disordering at finite temperature is to reduce the degree of crystallographic anisotropy associated with calculated interfacial free energies. The first-principles-computed solid-solubility limits for Sc in bulk fcc Al are found to be underestimated significantly in comparison with experimental measurements. It is argued that this discrepancy can be largely attributed to nonconfigurational contributions to the entropy which have been neglected in the present thermodynamic calculations. copyright 1998 The American Physical Society

Electrochemical dissolution of surface alloys in acids: Thermodynamic trends from first-principles calculations

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Greeley, Jeffrey Philip; Nørskov, Jens Kehlet

2007-01-01

A simple procedure is introduced to use periodic Density Functional Theory calculations to estimate trends in the thermodynamics of surface alloy dissolution in acidic media. With this approach, the dissolution potentials for solute metal atoms embedded in the surface layer of various host metals...

Superconducting properties of Zr1+xNi2-xGa and Zr1-xNi2+xGa Heusler compounds

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Saad Alzahrani

2017-05-01

Full Text Available The superconducting properties of a series of Zr1+xNi2-xGa and Zr1-xNi2+xGa compounds have been investigated by x-ray diffraction, electrical resistivity, dc magnetization, and ac susceptibility measurements. While the parent compound, ZrNi2Ga, exhibited the cubic L21 Heusler structure, multiple non-cubic structures formed in the Zr and Ni rich doped materials. For x ≤ 0.3, all Zr1-xNi2+xGa compounds demonstrated superconducting behavior, but no superconductivity was observed in the Zr1+xNi2-xGa alloys for x > 0.2. The magnetization data revealed that all materials in both Zr1+xNi2-xGa and Zr1-xNi2+xGa series exhibited type-II superconductivity. With increasing doping concentration x, the paramagnetic ordering were enhanced in both systems while the superconducting properties were found to weaken. The observations are discussed considering the structural disorders in the systems.

Calculation of the driving force for the radiation induced precipitation of Ni3Si in nickel-silicon alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Miodownik, A.P.; Watkin, J.S.

1979-01-01

The appearance of precipitates which have been identified as Ni 3 Si in irradiated stainless steels and nickel rich alloys such as Inconel is of considerable interest in relation to the swelling behaviour of such materials. Work on binary nickel-silicon alloys has shown that Ni 3 Si can be induced to precipitate in alloys whose silicon content is well below the accepted solubility limit, and it has also been shown that such precipitates redissolve when heat-treatment is continued at the same temperature in the absence of irradiation. Such effects imply an irradiation induced shift of chemical potential, and cannot be explained by merely involving accelerated diffusion. This paper represents an attempt to calculate the shift in chemical potential required to precipitate Ni 3 Si in alloys containing 1-10% Si (at%) over a range of temperatures (300-1000K), and then proceeds to relate this calculated chemical potential with available information concerning the dose rates required to induce such precipitates at various temperatures. Presentation of the results is modelled on the well established methods for handling the Time-Temperature-Transformation behaviour of ordinary alloy systems, with dose rate being substituted for the time axis. Analogous calculations are presented for nickel-germanium alloys, in order to check whether the numerical values deduced from the nickel silicon system have more general applicability, and also to see whether there are any significant differences in a system where the size factor of the solute is of the opposite sign. (orig.) [de

Computational design of precipitation-strengthened titanium-nickel-based shape memory alloys

Science.gov (United States)

Bender, Matthew D.

Motivated by performance requirements of future medical stent applications, experimental research addresses the design of novel TiNi-based, superelastic shape-memory alloys employing nanoscale precipitation strengthening to minimize accommodation slip for cyclic stability and to increase output stress capability for smaller devices. Using a thermodynamic database describing the B2 and L21 phases in the Al-Ni-Ti-Zr system, Thermo-Calc software was used to assist modeling the evolution of phase composition during 600°C isothermal evolution of coherent L21 Heusler phase precipitation from supersaturated TiNi-based B2 phase matrix in an alloy experimentally characterized by atomic-scale Local Electrode Atom Probe (LEAP) microanalysis. Based on measured evolution of the alloy hardness (under conditions stable against martensitic transformation) a model for the combined effects of solid solution strengthening and precipitation strengthening was calibrated, and the optimum particle size for efficient strengthening was identified. Thermodynamic modeling of the evolution of measured phase fractions and compositions identified the interfacial capillary energy enabling thermodynamic design of alloy microstructure with the optimal strengthening particle size. Extension of alloy designs to incorporate Pt and Pd for reducing Ni content, enhancing radiopacity, and improving manufacturability were considered using measured Pt and Pd B2/L2 1 partitioning coefficients. After determining that Pt partitioning greatly increases interphase misfit, full attention was devoted to Pd alloy designs. A quantitative approach to radiopacity was employed using mass attenuation as a metric. Radiopacity improvements were also qualitatively observed using x-ray fluoroscopy. Transformation temperatures were experimentally measured as a function of Al and Pd content. Redlich-Kister polynomial modeling was utilized for the dependence of transformation reversion Af temperature on B2 matrix phase

Electronic structure calculations for BaSxSe1-x alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Feng Zhenbao; Hu Haiquan; Cui Shouxin; Wang Wenjun

2009-01-01

A series of first principles calculations have been carried out to study structural, electronic properties of BaS x Se 1-x alloys. We have used the local density as well as the generalized gradient approximations for the exchange-correlation potential. The structural properties of these materials, in particular the composition dependence to the lattice constant and bulk modulus, are found to be linear. It is also found linear relationship between theoretical band gaps and 1/a 2 (where a is lattice constant).

Calculation of glass forming ranges in Al-Ni-RE (Ce, La, Y) ternary alloys and their sub-binaries based on Miedema's model

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sun, S.P.; Yi, D.Q.; Liu, H.Q.; Zang, B.; Jiang, Y.

2010-01-01

Research highlights: → A method based on semi-empirical Miedema's and Toop's model for predicting glass forming range of ternary alloy system has been systematically described. → The method is superior to conventional models by considering the effect of the thermodynamic asymmetric component when dealing with a ternary alloy system. → The glass forming ranges of Al-Ni-RE (Al-Ni-Ce, Al-Ni-Y and Al-Ni-La) systems and their sub-binaries have been successfully calculated. → The present calculations using the method are in well agreement with experiments. → This model is especially useful for predicting the glass forming range of ternary alloy system because the calculations do not require experimental data. - Abstract: A method based on the semi-empirical Miedema's and Toop's model for calculating the glass forming range of a ternary alloy system was systematically described. The method is superior to conventional models by considering the effect of the thermodynamic asymmetric component when dealing with a ternary alloy system. Using this method, the glass forming ranges of Al-Ni-RE (Ce, La, Y) systems and their sub-binaries were successfully predicted. The mixing enthalpy and mismatch entropy were calculated, and their effects on the glass forming abilities of Al-Ni-RE (Ce, La, Y) systems were also discussed. The glass forming abilities of Al-Ni-Ce, Al-Ni-La and Al-Ni-Y are found to be close. The calculated glass forming ranges agree with experiments well. Meanwhile, the enthalpy change from amorphous phase to solid solution in the glass forming ranges was calculated, and the results suggest that those alloys close to the Ni-RE sub-binary system have higher glass forming abilities.

Finite element calculation of the interaction energy of shape memory alloy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Yang, Seung Yong

2004-01-01

Strain energy due to the mechanical interaction between self-accommodation groups of martensitic phase transformation is called interaction energy. Evaluation of the interaction energy should be accurate since the energy appears in constitutive models for predicting the mechanical behavior of shape memory alloy. In this paper, the interaction energy is evaluated in terms of theoretical formulation and explicit finite element calculation. A simple example with two habit plane variants was considered. It was shown that the theoretical formulation assuming elastic interaction between the self-accommodation group and matrix gives larger interaction energy than explicit finite element calculation in which transformation softening is accounted for

Calculation of phase equilibria in Ti-Al-Cr-Mn quaternary system for developing lower cost titanium alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lu, X.G.; Li, C.H.; Chen, L.Y.; Qiu, A.T.; Ding, W.Z.

2011-01-01

Highlights: → This paper is about the concept of designing the lower cost titanium alloy. → The thermodynamic database of Ti-Al-Cr-Mn system is built up by Calphad method. → The pseudobinary sections with Cr: Mn = 3:1 and Al = 3, 4.5 and 6.0 wt% are calculated. → This may provide the theoretical support for designing the lower cost titanium alloy. - Abstract: The Ti-Al-Cr-Mn system is a potentially useful system for lower cost titanium alloy development; however, there are few reports about the experimental phase diagrams and the thermodynamical assessment for this system. In this study, the previous investigations for the thermodynamic descriptions of the sub-systems in the Ti-Al-Cr-Mn system are reviewed, our previous assessment for the related sub-systems in this quaternary system is summarized, the thermodynamical database of this quaternary system is built up by directly extrapolating from all sub-systems assessed by means of the Calphad method, then the pseudobinary sections with Cr:Mn = 3:1 and Al = 0.0, 3.0, 4.5 and 6.0 wt% are calculated, respectively. These pseudobinary phase diagrams may provide the theoretical support for designing the lower cost titanium alloys with different microstructures (α, α + β, and β titanium alloy).

Synthesis and Thermoelectric Properties of Ni-Doped ZrCoSb Half-Heusler Compounds

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Degang Zhao

2018-01-01

Full Text Available The Ni-doped ZrCo1−xNixSb half-Heusler compounds were prepared by arc-melting and spark plasma sintering technology. X-ray diffraction analysis results showed that all samples were crystallized in a half-Heusler phase. Thermoelectric properties of ZrCo1−xNixSb compounds were measured from room temperature to 850 K. The electrical conductivity and the absolute value of Seebeck coefficient increased with the Ni-doping content increasing due to the Ni substitution at Co. sites. The lattice thermal conductivity of ZrCo1−xNixSb samples was depressed dramatically because of the acoustic phonon scattering and point defect scattering. The figure of merit of ZrCo1−xNixSb compounds was improved due to the decreased thermal conductivity and improved power factor. The maximum ZT value of 0.24 was achieved for ZrCo0.92Ni0.08Sb sample at 850 K.

Search for promising compositions for developing new multiphase casting alloys based on Al-Cu-Mg matrix using thermodynamic calculations and mathematic simulation

Science.gov (United States)

Zolotorevskii, V. S.; Pozdnyakov, A. V.; Churyumov, A. Yu.

2012-11-01

A calculation-experimental study is carried out to improve the concept of searching for new alloying systems in order to develop new casting alloys using mathematical simulation methods in combination with thermodynamic calculations. The results show the high effectiveness of the applied methods. The real possibility of selecting the promising compositions with the required set of casting and mechanical properties is exemplified by alloys with thermally hardened Al-Cu and Al-Cu-Mg matrices, as well as poorly soluble additives that form eutectic components using mainly the calculation study methods and the minimum number of experiments.

Dirac cone and pseudogapped density of states in the topological half-Heusler compound YPtBi

Science.gov (United States)

Kronenberg, A.; Braun, J.; Minár, J.; Elmers, H.-J.; Kutnyakhov, D.; Zaporozhchenko, A. V.; Wallauer, R.; Chernov, S.; Medjanik, K.; Schönhense, G.; Kläui, M.; Chadov, S.; Ebert, H.; Jourdan, M.

2016-10-01

Topological insulators (TIs) are exciting materials, which exhibit unprecedented properties, such as helical spin-momentum locking, which leads to large torques for magnetic switching and highly efficient spin current detection. Here we explore the compound YPtBi, an example from the class of half-Heusler materials, for which the typical band inversion of topological insulators was predicted. We prepared this material as thin films by conventional cosputtering from elementary targets. By in situ time-of-flight momentum microscopy, a Dirac conelike surface state with a Dirac point ≃300 meV below the Fermi energy was observed, in agreement with electronic structure-photoemission calculations. Only little additional spectral weight due to other states was observed at EF, which corroborates the identification of the topologically protected surface state and is highly relevant for spintronics applications.

Structural, electronic, magnetic and thermodynamic properties of Ni1-xTixO alloys an ab initio calculation and Monte Carlo study

Science.gov (United States)

Klaa, K.; Labidi, S.; Masrour, R.; Jabar, A.; Labidi, M.; Amara, A.; Drici, A.; Hlil, E. K.; Ellouze, M.

2018-06-01

Structural, electronic, magnetic and thermodynamic main features for Ni1-xTixO ternary alloys in rock-salt structure with Ti content in the range ? were studied using the full potential Linearized augmented plane wave (FP-LAPW) method within density functional theory. The exchange-correlation potential was calculated by the generalized gradient approximation. The analysis of the electronic density of states curves allowed the computation of the magnetic moments which are considered to lie along (010) axes. The thermodynamic stability of this alloy was investigated by calculating the excess enthalpy of mixing ? as well as the phase diagram. In addition, the Monte Carlo simulations have been exploited to calculate the transition temperature and magnetic coercive field in the alloy.

X-ray diffraction study of thermally and stress-induced phase transformations in single crystalline Ni-Mn-Ga alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Martynov, V.V.

1995-01-01

Using in-situ single crystal X-ray diffraction methods, thermally- and stress-induced crystal structure evolution was investigated in two Ni-Mn-Ga Heusler-type alloys. For the 51at.%Ni-24at.%Mn-25at.%Ga alloy it was found that application of external stress in a temperature range ∼20 C above the M s at first causes intensity changes of X-ray diffuse scattering peaks in β-phase. Further stressing results in stress-induced phase transformations and under the appropriate conditions three successive martensitic transformations (one is parent-to-martensite and two are martensite-to-martensite transformations) can be stress induced. Of these only the parent-to-martensite transformation can be thermally-induced. Two successive structural transformations (thermally-induced parent-to-martensite and stress-induced martensite-to-martensite transformations) were found in 52at.%Ni-25at.%Mn-23at.%Ga alloy. Crystal structure, lattice parameters, type of modulation, and the length of modulation period for all martensites were identified. (orig.)

Influence of atomic ordering on elastocaloric and magnetocaloric effects of a Ni–Cu–Mn–Ga ferromagnetic shape memory alloy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Huang, Chonghui; Wang, Yu; Tang, Zhao; Liao, Xiaoqi; Yang, Sen; Song, Xiaoping

2015-01-01

Highlights: • Ni 51 Cu 4 Mn 20 Ga 25 alloy exhibits normal elastocaloric and magnetocaloric effects. • L2 1 atomic order of the alloy is increased after annealing at 773 K for 10 h. • Increasing L2 1 atomic order improves its elastocaloric and magnetocaloric effects. • Atomic ordering modifies the magnetic and martensitic transitions of the system. - Abstract: The coexisting elastocaloric and magnetocaloric effects in ferromagnetic shape memory alloys have attracted much attention for the potential application in solid state refrigeration. Previous studies show that the L2 1 atomic ordering of Heusler ferromagnetic shape memory alloys plays important role on their magnetocaloric effect. However, no research work investigates the effect of atomic ordering on their elastocaloric effect yet. In this study, we investigated the influence of atomic ordering on the elastocaloric and magnetocaloric effects of a Ni 51 Cu 4 Mn 20 Ga 25 ferromagnetic shape memory alloy. The alloy exhibits normal elastocaloric effect and normal magnetocaloric effect near room temperature. Moreover, we found that the enhancement of atomic order in this alloy can greatly increase the entropy change and refrigeration capacity of its elastocaloric and magnetocaloric effects. This is attributed to that the atomic ordering modifies the magnetic and martensitic transitions of the system

Temperature dependence of twinning and magnetic stresses in Ni.sub.46./sub.Mn.sub.24./sub.Ga.sub.22./sub.Co.sub.4./sub.Cu.sub.4./sub. alloy with giant 12% magnetic field-induced strain

Czech Academy of Sciences Publication Activity Database

Sozinov, A.; Soroka, A.; Lanska, N.; Rameš, Michal; Straka, Ladislav; Ullakko, K.

2017-01-01

Roč. 131, Apr (2017), s. 33-36 ISSN 1359-6462 R&D Projects: GA ČR GA16-00043S Institutional support: RVO:68378271 Keywords : Heusler phases * ferromagnetic shape memory alloy * twinning * magnetic anisotropy * magnetic shape memory Subject RIV: BM - Solid Matter Physics ; Magnetism OBOR OECD: Condensed matter physics (including formerly solid state physics, supercond.) Impact factor: 3.747, year: 2016

Iron -chromium alloys and free surfaces: from ab initio calculations to thermodynamic modeling

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Levesque, M.

2010-11-01

Ferritic steels possibly strengthened by oxide dispersion are candidates as structural materials for generation IV and fusion nuclear reactors. Their use is limited by incomplete knowledge of the iron-chromium phase diagram at low temperatures and of the phenomena inducing preferential segregation of one element at grain boundaries or at surfaces. In this context, this work contributes to the multi-scale study of the model iron-chromium alloy and their free surfaces by numerical simulations. This study begins with ab initio calculations of properties related to the mixture of atoms of iron and chromium. We highlight complex dependency of the magnetic moments of the chromium atoms on their local chemical environment. Surface properties are also proving sensitive to magnetism. This is the case of impurity segregation of chromium in iron and of their interactions near the surface. In a second step, we construct a simple energy model for high numerical efficiency. It is based on pair interactions on a rigid lattice to which are given local chemical environment and temperature dependencies. With this model, we reproduce the ab initio results at zero temperature and experimental results at high temperature. We also deduce the solubility limits at all intermediate temperatures with mean field approximations that we compare to Monte Carlo simulations. The last step of our work is to introduce free surfaces in our model. We then study the effect of ab initio calculated bulk and surface properties on surface segregation.Finally, we calculate segregation isotherms. We therefore propose an evolution model of surface composition of iron-chromium alloys as a function of bulk composition. which are given local chemical environment and temperature dependencies. With this model, we reproduce the ab initio results at zero temperature and experimental results at high temperature. We also deduce the solubility limits at all intermediate temperatures with mean field approximations that

First-principles calculations of the interaction between hydrogen and 3d alloying atom in nickel

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Liu, Wenguan, E-mail: liuwenguan@sinap.ac.cn [Shanghai Institute of Applied Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201800 (China); Key Laboratory of Nuclear Radiation and Nuclear Energy Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201800 (China); Qian, Yuan; Zhang, Dongxun [Shanghai Institute of Applied Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201800 (China); Key Laboratory of Nuclear Radiation and Nuclear Energy Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201800 (China); Liu, Wei, E-mail: liuwei@sinap.ac.cn [Shanghai Institute of Applied Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201800 (China); Key Laboratory of Nuclear Radiation and Nuclear Energy Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201800 (China); Han, Han [Shanghai Institute of Applied Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201800 (China); Key Laboratory of Nuclear Radiation and Nuclear Energy Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201800 (China)

2015-10-15

Knowledge of the behavior of hydrogen (H) in Ni-based alloy is essential for the prediction of Tritium behavior in Molten Salt Reactor. First-principles calculations were performed to investigate the interaction between H and 3d transition metal (TM) alloying atom in Ni-based alloy. H prefers the octahedral interstitial site to the tetrahedral interstitial site energetically. Most of the 3d TM elements (except Zn) attract H. The attraction to H in the Ni–TM–H system can be mainly attributed to the differences in electronegativity. With the large electronegativity, H and Ni gain electrons from the other TM elements, resulting in the enhanced Ni–H bonds which are the source of the attraction to H in the Ni–TM–H system. The obviously covalent-like Cr–H and Co–H bindings are also beneficial to the attraction to H. On the other hand, the repulsion to H in the Ni–Zn–H system is due to the stable electronic configuration of Zn. We mainly utilize the results calculated in 32-atom supercell which corresponds to the case of a relatively high concentration of hydrogen. Our results are in good agreement with the experimental ones.

Theoretical prediction of the electronic transport properties of the Al-Cu alloys based on the first-principle calculation and Boltzmann transport equation

Science.gov (United States)

Choi, Garam; Lee, Won Bo

Metal alloys, especially Al-based, are commonly-used materials for various industrial applications. In this paper, the Al-Cu alloys with varying the Al-Cu ratio were investigated based on the first-principle calculation using density functional theory. And the electronic transport properties of the Al-Cu alloys were carried out using Boltzmann transport theory. From the results, the transport properties decrease with Cu-containing ratio at the temperature from moderate to high, but with non-linearity. It is inferred by various scattering effects from the calculation results with relaxation time approximation. For the Al-Cu alloy system, where it is hard to find the reliable experimental data for various alloys, it supports understanding and expectation for the thermal electrical properties from the theoretical prediction. Theoretical and computational soft matters laboratory.

Formation of solid solutions of gallium in Fe–Cr and Fe–Co alloys: Mössbauer studies and first-principles calculations

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Serikov, V.V. [Institute of Metal Physics UB RAS, S. Kovalevskaya str. 18, 620990 Ekaterinburg (Russian Federation); Kleinerman, N.M., E-mail: kleinerman@imp.uran.ru [Institute of Metal Physics UB RAS, S. Kovalevskaya str. 18, 620990 Ekaterinburg (Russian Federation); Vershinin, A.V.; Mushnikov, N.V.; Protasov, A.V.; Stashkova, L.A. [Institute of Metal Physics UB RAS, S. Kovalevskaya str. 18, 620990 Ekaterinburg (Russian Federation); Gorbatov, O.I. [Institute of Metal Physics UB RAS, S. Kovalevskaya str. 18, 620990 Ekaterinburg (Russian Federation); Department of Materials Science and Engineering, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, SE - 100 44 Stockholm (Sweden); Ruban, A.V. [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, SE - 100 44 Stockholm (Sweden); Gornostyrev, Yu.N. [Institute of Metal Physics UB RAS, S. Kovalevskaya str. 18, 620990 Ekaterinburg (Russian Federation)

2014-11-25

Highlights: • Structure features of the formation of quasibinary solid solutions Fe–Co–Ga and Fe–Cr–Ga are found. • The first-principles calculation of mixing and solubility energies for Ga in an Fe–X alloy are given. • Ga handicaps the processes of phase separation in the Fe–Cr system and ordering in the Fe–Co system. • Preference of Ga entering in the neighborhood of a second element can help study multielement alloys. - Abstract: Investigation of Ga influence on the structure of Fe–Cr and Fe–Co alloys was performed with the use of Mössbauer spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction methods. The experimental results are compared with results of first-principles calculations of the mixing and solubility energies for Ga in an Fe–X (X = Co, Cr) alloy both in ferromagnetic and paramagnetic states. It is shown that Ga mainly goes into the solid solutions of the base alloys. In the alloys of the Fe–Cr system, doping with Ga handicaps the decomposition of solid solutions, observed in the binary alloys, and increases its stability. In the alloys with Co, Ga also favors the uniformity of solid solutions. The results of the first-principles calculations testify in favor of a preferable dissolution of Ga in the FeCo regions of a multicomponent structure rather than FeCr regions, both types of regions being in the ferromagnetic state at the temperature of annealing. The analysis of Mössbauer experiments gives some grounds to conclude that if, owing to liquation, clusterization, or initial stages of phase separation, there exist regions enriched in iron, some amount of Ga atoms prefer to enter the nearest surroundings of iron atoms, thus forming binary Fe–Ga regions (or phases)

Unconventional superconductivity and surface pairing symmetry in half-Heusler compounds

Science.gov (United States)

Wang, Qing-Ze; Yu, Jiabin; Liu, Chao-Xing

2018-06-01

Signatures of nodal line/point superconductivity [Kim et al., Sci. Adv. 4, eaao4513 (2018), 10.1126/sciadv.aao4513; Brydon et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 116, 177001 (2016), 10.1103/PhysRevLett.116.177001] have been observed in half-Heusler compounds, such as LnPtBi (Ln = Y, Lu). Topologically nontrivial band structures, as well as topological surface states, have also been confirmed by angular-resolved photoemission spectroscopy in these compounds [Liu et al., Nat. Commun. 7, 12924 (2016), 10.1038/ncomms12924]. In this paper, we present a systematical classification of possible gap functions of bulk states and surface states in half-Heusler compounds and the corresponding topological properties based on the representations of crystalline symmetry group. Different from all the previous studies based on the four band Luttinger model, our study starts with the six-band Kane model, which involves both four p-orbital type of Γ8 bands and two s-orbital type of Γ6 bands. Although the Γ6 bands are away from the Fermi energy, our results reveal the importance of topological surface states, which originate from the band inversion between Γ6 and Γ8 bands, in determining surface properties of these compounds in the superconducting regime by combining topological bulk state picture and nontrivial surface state picture.

Ab initio calculations of ideal strength and lattice instability in W-Ta and W-Re alloys

Science.gov (United States)

Yang, Chaoming; Qi, Liang

2018-01-01

An important theoretical criterion to evaluate the ductility of metals with a body-centered cubic (bcc) lattice is the mechanical failure mode of their perfect crystals under tension along ; directions. When the tensile stress reaches the ideal tensile strength, the pure W crystal fails by a cleavage fracture along the {100 } plane so that it is intrinsically brittle. To discover the strategy to improve its ductility, we performed density functional theory and density functional perturbation theory calculations to study the ideal tensile strength and the lattice instability under tension for both W-Ta and W-Re alloys. Anisotropic linear elastic fracture mechanics (LEFM) theory and Rice's criterion were also applied to analyze the mechanical instability at the crack tip under tension based on the competition between cleavage propagation and dislocation emission. The results show that the intrinsic ductility can be achieved in both W-Ta and W-Re, however, by different mechanisms. Even though W-Ta alloys with low Ta concentrations are still intrinsically brittle, the intrinsic ductility of W-Ta alloys with high Ta concentrations is promoted by elastic shear instability before the cleavage failure. The intrinsic ductility of W-Re alloys is produced by unstable transverse phonon waves before the cleavage failure, and the corresponding phonon mode is related to the generation of 1/2 {2 ¯11 } dislocation in bcc crystals. The ideal tensile calculations, phonon analyses, and anisotropic LEFM examinations are mutually consistent in the evaluation of intrinsic ductility. These results bring us physical insights on the ductility-brittle mechanisms of W alloys under extreme stress conditions.

Structural, magnetic and transport properties of Co2FeAl Heusler films with varying thickness

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wang, Xiaotian; Li, Yueqing; Du, Yin; Dai, Xuefang; Liu, Guodong; Liu, Enke; Liu, Zhongyuan; Wang, Wenhong; Wu, Guangheng

2014-01-01

We report on a systematic study of the structural, magnetic properties and the anomalous Hall effect, in the Heusler alloy Co 2 FeAl (CFA) epitaxial films on MgO (001), as a function of film thickness. It was found that the epitaxial CFA films show a highly ordered B2 structure with an in-plane uniaxial magnetic anisotropy. The electrical transport properties reveal that the lattice and magnon scattering contributions to the longitudinal resistivity. Independent on the thickness of films, the anomalous Hall resistivity of CFA films is found to be dominated by skew scattering only. Moreover, the anomalous Hall resistivity shows weakly temperature dependent behavior, and its absolute value increases as the thickness decreases. We attribute this temperature insensitivity in the anomalous Hall resistivity to the weak temperature dependent of tunneling spin-polarization in the CFA films, while the thickness dependence behavior is likely due to the increasing significance of interface or free surface electronic states. - Highlights: ●Highly ordered CFA films with various thicknesses were prepared on MgO substrates. ●The magnon scattering contributions to the longitudinal resistivity in the CFA films. ●The anomalous Hall resistivity of the CFA films shows weakly temperature dependent. ●The CFA films show weak temperature dependent of tunneling spin-polarization

First-principal study of full Heusler alloys Co{sub 2}VZ (Z = As, In)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Gupta, Dinesh C., E-mail: sosfizix@gmail.com [Condensed Matter Theory Group, School of Studies in Physics, Jiwaji University, Gwalior 474 011, M.P. (India); Ghosh, Sukriti [Department of Physics, Govt. K.R.G. Auto. P.G. College, Gwalior 474 001, M.P. (India); Condensed Matter Theory Group, School of Studies in Physics, Jiwaji University, Gwalior 474 011, M.P. (India)

2017-08-01

Highlights: • The present materials show magnetism and hence they can prove to be important in modern technology. • The materials show high spin polarization hence can be better candidates for spintronics. • It is the first attempt to predict the thermodynamic and transport properties by ab initio method. • They behave as metallic in spin-up and semiconductor-like behavior in spin-down states. • Their interesting properties will attract interest in such materials. - Abstract: We have used full-potential linearized augmented plane wave method in the stable Fm-3m phase to investigate the structural, elastic, magnetic and electronic properties of Co{sub 2}VZ (Z = As, In). The optimized equilibrium lattice parameter in stable phase is 5.80 Å for Co{sub 2}VAs and 6.01 Å for Co{sub 2}VIn. Ferromagnetic behavior of both the alloys is explained by the spin resolved density of states. The exchange splitting due to Co and V atoms are responsible for the ferromagnetic behaviour. No energy gap is found in spin up state while an energy gap can be seen in spin down state, hence, showing half-metallic nature. Elastic stability is discussed through elastic constants. Thermodynamic properties of the alloys have been obtained by using the quasi-harmonic approximations. Boltzmann theory is employed to investigate the electronic transport properties of these alloys.

Superconductivity and magnetic order in the noncentrosymmetric half-Heusler compound ErPdBi

NARCIS (Netherlands)

Pan, Y.; Nikitin, A.M.; Bay, T.V.; Huang, Y.K.; Paulsen, C.; Yan, B.H.; de Visser, A.

2013-01-01

We report superconductivity at Tc = 1.22 K and magnetic order at TN = 1.06\\ K in the semimetallic noncentrosymmetric half-Heusler compound ErPdBi. The upper critical field, Bc2, has an unusual quasi-linear temperature variation and reaches a value of 1.6 T for T - 0 . Magnetic order is found below

Systematic ab initio study of half-Heusler materials for optoelectronic applications

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Gruhn, Thomas; Felser, Claudia [Institute of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz (Germany)

2010-07-01

The development of new, optimized optoelectronic devices depends crucially on the availability of semiconductors with taylored electronic and structural properties. At the moment, the majority of applications is based on a rather small set of semiconducting materials, while many more semiconductors exist in the huge class of ternary compounds. Especially, the class of 8-electron half-Heusler materials comprises a large number semiconducters with various properties. With the help of ab initio density functional theory we have studied essentially all 8-electron half-Heusler compounds that are of technological relevance. For more than 650 compounds we have determined the optimum configuration by varying the lattice constant and permuting the elements over the sublattices. Within this exceptionally large data set we have studied the band structure and the lattice constants as a function of the electronegativities of the elements, the arrangement of the atoms, and the atomic radii. The results are used to select suitable materials for the buffer layer in thin-film solar cells with a Cu(In,Ga)Se{sub 2} (CIGS) absorber layer. Considering the bandgap and the geometrical matching with the CIGS film, we have obtained a set of 29 compounds that are promissing materials for cadmium-free CIGS buffer layer.

SU-C-BRC-05: Monte Carlo Calculations to Establish a Simple Relation of Backscatter Dose Enhancement Around High-Z Dental Alloy to Its Atomic Number

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Utsunomiya, S; Kushima, N; Katsura, K; Tanabe, S; Hayakawa, T; Sakai, H; Yamada, T; Takahashi, H; Abe, E; Wada, S; Aoyama, H [Niigata University, Niigata (Japan)

2016-06-15

Purpose: To establish a simple relation of backscatter dose enhancement around a high-Z dental alloy in head and neck radiation therapy to its average atomic number based on Monte Carlo calculations. Methods: The PHITS Monte Carlo code was used to calculate dose enhancement, which is quantified by the backscatter dose factor (BSDF). The accuracy of the beam modeling with PHITS was verified by comparing with basic measured data namely PDDs and dose profiles. In the simulation, a high-Z alloy of 1 cm cube was embedded into a tough water phantom irradiated by a 6-MV (nominal) X-ray beam of 10 cm × 10 cm field size of Novalis TX (Brainlab). The ten different materials of high-Z alloys (Al, Ti, Cu, Ag, Au-Pd-Ag, I, Ba, W, Au, Pb) were considered. The accuracy of calculated BSDF was verified by comparing with measured data by Gafchromic EBT3 films placed at from 0 to 10 mm away from a high-Z alloy (Au-Pd-Ag). We derived an approximate equation to determine the relation of BSDF and range of backscatter to average atomic number of high-Z alloy. Results: The calculated BSDF showed excellent agreement with measured one by Gafchromic EBT3 films at from 0 to 10 mm away from the high-Z alloy. We found the simple linear relation of BSDF and range of backscatter to average atomic number of dental alloys. The latter relation was proven by the fact that energy spectrum of backscatter electrons strongly depend on average atomic number. Conclusion: We found a simple relation of backscatter dose enhancement around high-Z alloys to its average atomic number based on Monte Carlo calculations. This work provides a simple and useful method to estimate backscatter dose enhancement from dental alloys and corresponding optimal thickness of dental spacer to prevent mucositis effectively.

Magnetic hysterysis evolution of Ni-Al alloy with Fe and Mn substitution by vacuum arc melting to produce the room temperature magnetocaloric effect material

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Notonegoro, Hamdan Akbar [PPS Materials Science, FMIPA-Universitas Indonesia, Depok 16424 (Indonesia); Mechanical Engineering Dept., FT-Universitas Sultan Ageng Tirtayasa, Cilegon 42435 (Indonesia); Kurniawan, Budhy; Manaf, Azwar, E-mail: azwar@sci.ui.ac.id [PPS Materials Science, FMIPA-Universitas Indonesia, Depok 16424 (Indonesia); Setiawan, Jan [Center for Nuclear Fuel Tecnology-Badan Tenaga Atom Nasional, Tangerang Selatan 15310 (Indonesia)

2016-06-17

The development of magnetocaloric effect (MCE) material is done in order to reduce the damage of the ozone layer caused by the chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) emitted into the air. The research dealing with synthesis of magnetocaloric materials based of Ni-Al Heusler Alloy structure and by varying substitution some atoms of Ni with Fe and Al with Mn on Ni-Al Heusler Alloy structure to become Ni{sub 44}Fe{sub 6}Mn{sub 32}Al{sub 18}. Vacuum Arc Melting (VAM) equipment is used to form the alloys on vacuum condition and by flowing argon gas atmosphere and then followed by annealing process for 72 hours. X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) reveals that crystallite structure of material is observed. We define that Ni{sub 44}Fe{sub 6} as X{sub 2}, Mn{sub 25} as Y, and Al{sub 18}Mn{sub 7} as Z. Based on the XRD result, we observed that the general formula X{sub 2}YZ is not changed. The PERMAGRAF measurement revealed that there exists of magnetic hysterysis. The hysterysis show that the magnetic structures of the system undego evolution from diamagnetic to soft ferromagnetic material which all of the compound have the same crystallite structure. This evolution indicated that the change in the composition has led to changes the magnetic composition. Mn is the major element that gives strong magnetic properties to the sample. When Mn partially replaced position of Al, the sample became dominant to be influenced to improve their magnetic properties. In addition, substitution a part of Ni by Fe in the composition reveals a pinning of the domain walls in the sample.

Evaluation of the Precipitation Behavior in SA508 Gr. 4N Low Alloy Steel Using a Thermodynamic Calculation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Park, Sang Gyu; Wee, Dang Moon; Kim, Min Chul; Lee, Bong Sang

2007-01-01

Low carbon low alloy steels, used as nuclear pressure vessels, steam generators and so on, hold a large portion of materials for nuclear power plants, and they are very important materials since they determine the safety and the life span of nuclear power plants. In addition, they are utilized for a long period under very severe conditions such as a high pressure, high temperature, neutron irradiation and corrosion, so they need a good combination of strength and toughness, a good weldability and an excellent neutron irradiation resistance and so on. SA508 Gr.3 steel shows the upper bainite microstructure, which is a less tough, so the steel is more difficult to obtain good toughness than to have good strength. And then, if a loss of toughness due to a neutron irradiation during service is considered, above all improving the toughness is important when a pressure vessel is fabricated It is known that a higher strength and fracture toughness of low alloy steels could be achieved by increasing the Ni and Cr contents. In this study, we have performed a thermodynamic calculation based on the microstructure of SA508 Gr.4N low alloy steel which has higher Ni and Cr contents than SA508 Gr.3 low alloy steel. Based on the microstructure/property relations obtained from literature research experimental works on SA508 Gr.4N steels, and by predicting the constitutional changes with alloying elements (such as Mn, Cr) during individual steps of a steel making process a using thermodynamic calculation, fundamental information for an alloy design have been discussed

Investigation of thermoelectricity in KScSn half-Heusler compound

Science.gov (United States)

Shrivastava, Deepika; Acharya, Nikita; Sanyal, Sankar P.

2018-05-01

The electronic and transport properties of KScSn half-Heusler (HH) compound have been investigated using first-principles density functional theory and semi classical Boltzmann transport theory. The electronic band structure and density of states (total and partial) show semiconducting nature of KScSn with band gap 0.48 eV which agree well with previously reported results. The transport coefficient such as electrical conductivity, Seebeck coefficient, electronic thermal conductivity and power factor as a function of chemical potential are evaluated. KScSn has high power factor for p-type doping and is a potential candidate for thermoelectric applications.

Influence of atomic ordering on elastocaloric and magnetocaloric effects of a Ni–Cu–Mn–Ga ferromagnetic shape memory alloy

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Huang, Chonghui [MOE Key Laboratory for Nonequilibrium Synthesis and Modulation of Condensed Matter and State Key Laboratory for Mechanical Behavior of Materials, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049 (China); Wang, Yu, E-mail: yuwang@mail.xjtu.edu.cn [MOE Key Laboratory for Nonequilibrium Synthesis and Modulation of Condensed Matter and State Key Laboratory for Mechanical Behavior of Materials, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049 (China); Multi-disciplinary Materials Research Center, Frontier Institute of Science and Technology, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049 (China); Tang, Zhao; Liao, Xiaoqi; Yang, Sen; Song, Xiaoping [MOE Key Laboratory for Nonequilibrium Synthesis and Modulation of Condensed Matter and State Key Laboratory for Mechanical Behavior of Materials, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049 (China)

2015-05-05

Highlights: • Ni{sub 51}Cu{sub 4}Mn{sub 20}Ga{sub 25} alloy exhibits normal elastocaloric and magnetocaloric effects. • L2{sub 1} atomic order of the alloy is increased after annealing at 773 K for 10 h. • Increasing L2{sub 1} atomic order improves its elastocaloric and magnetocaloric effects. • Atomic ordering modifies the magnetic and martensitic transitions of the system. - Abstract: The coexisting elastocaloric and magnetocaloric effects in ferromagnetic shape memory alloys have attracted much attention for the potential application in solid state refrigeration. Previous studies show that the L2{sub 1} atomic ordering of Heusler ferromagnetic shape memory alloys plays important role on their magnetocaloric effect. However, no research work investigates the effect of atomic ordering on their elastocaloric effect yet. In this study, we investigated the influence of atomic ordering on the elastocaloric and magnetocaloric effects of a Ni{sub 51}Cu{sub 4}Mn{sub 20}Ga{sub 25} ferromagnetic shape memory alloy. The alloy exhibits normal elastocaloric effect and normal magnetocaloric effect near room temperature. Moreover, we found that the enhancement of atomic order in this alloy can greatly increase the entropy change and refrigeration capacity of its elastocaloric and magnetocaloric effects. This is attributed to that the atomic ordering modifies the magnetic and martensitic transitions of the system.

Structural, magnetic and transport properties of Co{sub 2}FeAl Heusler films with varying thickness

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Wang, Xiaotian [School of Material Sciences and Engineering, Hebei University Technology, Tianjin 300130 (China); Beijing National Laboratory for Condensed Matter Physics, Institute of Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190 (China); Li, Yueqing [Beijing National Laboratory for Condensed Matter Physics, Institute of Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190 (China); State Key Laboratory of Metastable Material Sciences and Technology, Yanshan University, Qinhuangdao 066004 (China); Du, Yin [Beijing National Laboratory for Condensed Matter Physics, Institute of Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190 (China); Dai, Xuefang; Liu, Guodong [School of Material Sciences and Engineering, Hebei University Technology, Tianjin 300130 (China); Liu, Enke [Beijing National Laboratory for Condensed Matter Physics, Institute of Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190 (China); Liu, Zhongyuan [State Key Laboratory of Metastable Material Sciences and Technology, Yanshan University, Qinhuangdao 066004 (China); Wang, Wenhong, E-mail: wenhong.wang@iphy.ac.cn [Beijing National Laboratory for Condensed Matter Physics, Institute of Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190 (China); Wu, Guangheng [Beijing National Laboratory for Condensed Matter Physics, Institute of Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190 (China)

2014-08-01

We report on a systematic study of the structural, magnetic properties and the anomalous Hall effect, in the Heusler alloy Co{sub 2}FeAl (CFA) epitaxial films on MgO (001), as a function of film thickness. It was found that the epitaxial CFA films show a highly ordered B2 structure with an in-plane uniaxial magnetic anisotropy. The electrical transport properties reveal that the lattice and magnon scattering contributions to the longitudinal resistivity. Independent on the thickness of films, the anomalous Hall resistivity of CFA films is found to be dominated by skew scattering only. Moreover, the anomalous Hall resistivity shows weakly temperature dependent behavior, and its absolute value increases as the thickness decreases. We attribute this temperature insensitivity in the anomalous Hall resistivity to the weak temperature dependent of tunneling spin-polarization in the CFA films, while the thickness dependence behavior is likely due to the increasing significance of interface or free surface electronic states. - Highlights: ●Highly ordered CFA films with various thicknesses were prepared on MgO substrates. ●The magnon scattering contributions to the longitudinal resistivity in the CFA films. ●The anomalous Hall resistivity of the CFA films shows weakly temperature dependent. ●The CFA films show weak temperature dependent of tunneling spin-polarization.

The influence of boron addtion on structural, magnetic and thermoelectric properties of Ni₂Mn_1.52Sb_0.48B_x

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Van Nong, Ngo; Le, Thanh Hung; Tuan Tai, Luu

Heusler alloys known as X2YZ (full­-Heusler) and XYZ (half-­Hersler), where X and Y denote the transition metals and X is s-­p such as Al, Ga, Sb, Sn, In, ect., have been extensively studied since they possess many important properties [1-­3] like shape memory effect, magnetocaloric effect (MCE...

Calculations of the properties of superconducting alloys via the average T-matrix approximation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Chatterjee, P.

1980-01-01

The theoretical formula of McMillan, modified via the multiple-scattering theory by Gomersall and Gyorffy, has been very successful in computing the electron-phonon coupling constant (lambda) and the transition temperature (Tsub(c)) of many superconducting elements and compounds. For disordered solids, such as substitutional alloys, however, this theory fails because of the breakdown of the translational symmetry used in the multiple-scattering theory. Under these conditions the problem can still be solved if the t-matrix is averaged in the random phase approximation (average T-matrix approximation). Gomersall and Gyorffy's expression is reformulated for lambda in the random phase approximation. This theory is applied to calculate lambda and Tsub(c) of the binary substitutional NbMo alloy system at different concentrations. The results appear to be in fair agreement with experiments. (author)

High electron mobility and large magnetoresistance in the half-Heusler semimetal LuPtBi

KAUST Repository

Hou, Zhipeng

2015-12-18

Materials with high carrier mobility showing large magnetoresistance (MR) have recently received much attention because of potential applications in future high-performance magnetoelectric devices. Here, we report on an electron-hole-compensated half-Heusler semimetal LuPtBi that exhibits an extremely high electron mobility of up to 79000cm2/Vs with a nonsaturating positive MR as large as 3200% at 2 K. Remarkably, the mobility at 300 K is found to exceed 10500cm2/Vs, which is among the highest values reported in three-dimensional bulk materials thus far. The clean Shubnikov–de Haas quantum oscillation observed at low temperatures and the first-principles calculations together indicate that the high electron mobility is due to a rather small effective carrier mass caused by the distinctive band structure of the crystal. Our findings provide a different approach for finding large, high-mobility MR materials by designing an appropriate Fermi surface topology starting from simple electron-hole-compensated semimetals.

Rare earth-based quaternary Heusler compounds MCoVZ (M = Lu, Y; Z = Si, Ge with tunable band characteristics for potential spintronic applications

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Xiaotian Wang

2017-11-01

Full Text Available Magnetic Heusler compounds (MHCs have recently attracted great attention since these types of material provide novel functionalities in spintronic and magneto-electronic devices. Among the MHCs, some compounds have been predicted to be spin-filter semiconductors [also called magnetic semiconductors (MSs], spin-gapless semiconductors (SGSs or half-metals (HMs. In this work, by means of first-principles calculations, it is demonstrated that rare earth-based equiatomic quaternary Heusler (EQH compounds with the formula MCoVZ (M = Lu, Y; Z = Si, Ge are new spin-filter semiconductors with total magnetic moments of 3 µB. Furthermore, under uniform strain, there are physical transitions from spin-filter semiconductor (MS → SGS → HM for EQH compounds with the formula LuCoVZ, and from HM → SGS → MS → SGS → HM for EQH compounds with the formula YCoVZ. Remarkably, for YCoVZ EQH compounds there are not only diverse physical transitions, but also different types of spin-gapless feature that can be observed with changing lattice constants. The structural stability of these four EQH compounds is also examined from the points of view of formation energy, cohesive energy and mechanical behaviour. This work is likely to inspire consideration of rare earth-based EQH compounds for application in future spintronic and magneto-electronic devices.

Large linear magnetoresistance and shubnikov-de hass oscillations in single crystals of YPdBi heusler topological insulators

KAUST Repository

Wang, Wenhong; Du, Yin; Xu, Guizhou; Zhang, Xiaoming; Liu, Enke; Liu, Zhongyuan; Shi, Youguo; Chen, Jinglan; Wu, Guangheng; Zhang, Xixiang

2013-01-01

We report the observation of a large linear magnetoresistance (MR) and Shubnikov-de Hass (SdH) quantum oscillations in single crystals of YPdBi Heusler topological insulators. Owning to the successfully obtained the high-quality YPdBi single crystals, large non-saturating linear MR of as high as 350% at 5K and over 120% at 300K under a moderate magnetic field of 7T is observed. In addition to the large, field-linear MR, the samples exhibit pronounced SdH quantum oscillations at low temperature. Analysis of the SdH data manifests that the high-mobility bulk electron carriers dominate the magnetotransport and are responsible for the observed large linear MR in YPdBi crystals. These findings imply that the Heusler-based topological insulators have superiorities for investigating the novel quantum transport properties and developing the potential applications.

Large linear magnetoresistance and shubnikov-de hass oscillations in single crystals of YPdBi heusler topological insulators

KAUST Repository

Wang, Wenhong

2013-07-12

We report the observation of a large linear magnetoresistance (MR) and Shubnikov-de Hass (SdH) quantum oscillations in single crystals of YPdBi Heusler topological insulators. Owning to the successfully obtained the high-quality YPdBi single crystals, large non-saturating linear MR of as high as 350% at 5K and over 120% at 300K under a moderate magnetic field of 7T is observed. In addition to the large, field-linear MR, the samples exhibit pronounced SdH quantum oscillations at low temperature. Analysis of the SdH data manifests that the high-mobility bulk electron carriers dominate the magnetotransport and are responsible for the observed large linear MR in YPdBi crystals. These findings imply that the Heusler-based topological insulators have superiorities for investigating the novel quantum transport properties and developing the potential applications.

First-principles calculations of the structural, electronic and optical properties of cubic B{sub x}Ga{sub 1-x}As alloys

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Guemou, M., E-mail: guemoumhamed7@gmail.com [Engineering Physics Laboratory, University Ibn Khaldoun of Tiaret, BP 78-Zaaroura, Tiaret 14000 (Algeria); Bouhafs, B. [Modelling and Simulation in Materials Science Laboratory, Physics Department, University of Sidi Bel-Abbes, 22000 Sidi Bel-Abbes (Algeria); Abdiche, A. [Applied Materials Laboratory, Research Center, University of Sidi Bel Abbes, 22000 Sidi Bel Abbes (Algeria); Khenata, R. [Laboratoire de Physique Quantique et de Modelisation Mathematique (LPQ3M), Departement de Technologie, Universite de Mascara, 29000 Mascara (Algeria); Al Douri, Y. [Institute of Nano Electronic Engineering, Universiti Malaysia Perlis, Perlis (Malaysia); Bin Omran, S. [Department of Physics and Astronomy, Faculty of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh 11451 (Saudi Arabia)

2012-04-15

Density functional calculations are performed to study the structural, electronic and optical properties of technologically important B{sub x}Ga{sub 1-x}As ternary alloys. The calculations are based on the total-energy calculations within the full-potential augmented plane-wave (FP-LAPW) method. For exchange-correlation potential, local density approximation (LDA) and the generalized gradient approximation (GGA) have been used. The structural properties, including lattice constants, bulk modulus and their pressure derivatives, are in very good agreement with the available experimental and theoretical data. The electronic band structure, density of states for the binary compounds and their ternary alloys are given. The dielectric function and the refractive index are also calculated using different models. The obtained results compare very well with previous calculations and experimental measurements.

Effect of Cu Alloying on S Poisoning of Ni Surfaces and Nanoparticle Morphologies Using Ab-Initio Thermodynamics Calculations.

Science.gov (United States)

Kim, Ji-Su; Kim, Byung-Kook; Kim, Yeong-Cheol

2015-10-01

We investigated the effect of Cu alloying on S poisoning of Ni surfaces and nanoparticle morphologies using ab-initio thermodynamics calculations. Based on the Cu segregation energy and the S adsorption energy, the surface energy and nanoparticle morphology of pure Ni, pure Cu, and NiCu alloys were evaluated as functions of the chemical potential of S and the surface orientations of (100), (110), and (111). The constructed nanoparticle morphology was varied as a function of chemical potential of S. We find that the Cu added to Ni for NiCu alloys is strongly segregated into the top surface, and increases the S tolerance of the NiCu nanoparticles.

Standard enthalpies of formation of selected Ru{sub 2}YZ Heusler compounds

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Yin, Ming, E-mail: myin1@hawk.iit.edu; Nash, Philip

2015-06-15

Highlights: • Standard enthalpies of formation of Ru{sub 2}YZ were measured using a drop calorimeter. • Result of L2{sub 1} structured compounds agrees with first principles data. • Lattice parameters and related phase relationships were consistent with literature data. • Ru{sub 2}HfSn, Ru{sub 2}TiSn, Ru{sub 2}VGa, Ru{sub 2}VSi, Ru{sub 2}VSn of L2{sub 1} structure were reported for the first time. - Abstract: The standard enthalpies of formation of selected ternary Ru-based Heusler compounds Ru{sub 2}YZ (Y = Fe, Hf, Mn, Ti, V; Z = Al, Ga, In, Si, Ge, Sn) were measured using high temperature direct reaction calorimetry. The measured enthalpies of formation (in kJ/mole of atoms) of the Heusler compounds are, Ru{sub 2}FeGe (−19.7 ± 3.3); Ru{sub 2}HfSn (−24.9 ± 3.6); Ru{sub 2}MnSi (−46.0 ± 2.6); Ru{sub 2}MnGe (−29.7 ± 1.0); Ru{sub 2}MnSn (−20.6 ± 2.4); Ru{sub 2}TiSi (−94.9 ± 4.0); Ru{sub 2}TiGe (−79.1 ± 3.2); Ru{sub 2}TiSn (−60.6 ± 1.8); Ru{sub 2}VSi (−55.9 ± 1.7);for the B2-structured compounds, Ru{sub 2}FeSi (−28.5 ± 0.8); Ru{sub 2}HfAl (−70.8 ± 1.9); Ru{sub 2}MnAl (−32.3 ± 1.9); Ru{sub 2}MnGa (−25.3 ± 3.0); Ru{sub 2}TiAl (−62.7 ± 3.5); Ru{sub 2}VAl (−30.9 ± 1.6); Ru{sub 2}ZrAl (−64.5 ± 1.5). Values were compared with those from published first principles calculations and the OQMD (Open Quantum Materials Database). Lattice parameters of these compounds were determined using X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD). Microstructures were identified using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS)

Impact of Interstitial Ni on the Thermoelectric Properties of the Half-Heusler TiNiSn

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Sonia A. Barczak

2018-03-01

Full Text Available TiNiSn is an intensively studied half-Heusler alloy that shows great potential for waste heat recovery. Here, we report on the structures and thermoelectric properties of a series of metal-rich TiNi1+ySn compositions prepared via solid-state reactions and hot pressing. A general relation between the amount of interstitial Ni and lattice parameter is determined from neutron powder diffraction. High-resolution synchrotron X-ray powder diffraction reveals the occurrence of strain broadening upon hot pressing, which is attributed to the metastable arrangement of interstitial Ni. Hall measurements confirm that interstitial Ni causes weak n-type doping and a reduction in carrier mobility, which limits the power factor to 2.5–3 mW m−1 K−2 for these samples. The thermal conductivity was modelled within the Callaway approximation and is quantitively linked to the amount of interstitial Ni, resulting in a predicted value of 12.7 W m−1 K−1 at 323 K for stoichiometric TiNiSn. Interstitial Ni leads to a reduction of the thermal band gap and moves the peak ZT = 0.4 to lower temperatures, thus offering the possibility to engineer a broad ZT plateau. This work adds further insight into the impact of small amounts of interstitial Ni on the thermal and electrical transport of TiNiSn.

Electronic structure, magnetism and disorder in the Heusler compound Co2TiSn

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kandpal, Hem Chandra; Ksenofontov, Vadim; Wojcik, Marek; Seshadri, Ram; Felser, Claudia

2007-01-01

Polycrystalline samples of the Heusler compound Co 2 TiSn have been prepared and studied using bulk techniques (x-ray diffraction and magnetization) as well as local probes ( 119 Sn Moessbauer spectroscopy and 59 Co nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy) in order to determine how disorder affects the half-metallic behaviour and also to establish the joint use of Moessbauer and NMR spectroscopies as a quantitative probe of local atom ordering in these compounds. Additionally, density functional electronic structure calculations on ordered and partially disordered Co 2 TiSn compounds have been carried out at a number of different levels of theory in order to simultaneously understand how the particular choice of DFT scheme as well as disorder affects the computed magnetization. Our studies suggest that a sample which seems well ordered by x-ray diffraction and magnetization measurements can possess up to 10% of antisite (Co/Ti) disordering. Computations similarly suggest that even 12.5% antisite Co/Ti disorder does not destroy the half-metallic character of this material. However, the use of an appropriate level of non-local DFT is crucial

Materials Screening for the Discovery of New Half-Heuslers: Machine Learning versus ab Initio Methods.

Science.gov (United States)

Legrain, Fleur; Carrete, Jesús; van Roekeghem, Ambroise; Madsen, Georg K H; Mingo, Natalio

2018-01-18

Machine learning (ML) is increasingly becoming a helpful tool in the search for novel functional compounds. Here we use classification via random forests to predict the stability of half-Heusler (HH) compounds, using only experimentally reported compounds as a training set. Cross-validation yields an excellent agreement between the fraction of compounds classified as stable and the actual fraction of truly stable compounds in the ICSD. The ML model is then employed to screen 71 178 different 1:1:1 compositions, yielding 481 likely stable candidates. The predicted stability of HH compounds from three previous high-throughput ab initio studies is critically analyzed from the perspective of the alternative ML approach. The incomplete consistency among the three separate ab initio studies and between them and the ML predictions suggests that additional factors beyond those considered by ab initio phase stability calculations might be determinant to the stability of the compounds. Such factors can include configurational entropies and quasiharmonic contributions.

Calculations of hydrogen diffusivity in Zr-based alloys: Influence of alloying elements and effect of stress

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Yu, J.; Jiang, C.; Zhang, Y.

2017-01-01

This report summarizes the progress on modeling hydrogen diffusivity in Zr-based alloys. The presence of hydrogen (H) can detrimentally affect the mechanical properties of many metals and alloys. To mitigate these detrimental effects requires fundamental understanding of the thermodynamics and kinetics governing H pickup and hydride formation. In this work, we focus on H diffusion in Zr-based alloys by studying the effects of alloying elements and stress, factors that have been shown to strongly affect H pickup and hydride formation in nuclear fuel claddings. A recently developed accelerated kinetic Monte Carlo method is used for the study. It is found that for the alloys considered here, H diffusivity depends weakly on composition, with negligible effect at high temperatures in the range of 600-1200 K. Therefore, the small variation in compositions of these alloys is likely not a major cause of the very different H pickup rates. In contrast, stress strongly affects H diffusivity. This effect needs to be considered for studying hydride formation and delayed hydride cracking.

Calculations of hydrogen diffusivity in Zr-based alloys: Influence of alloying elements and effect of stress

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Yu, J. [Idaho National Lab. (INL), Idaho Falls, ID (United States); Jiang, C. [Idaho National Lab. (INL), Idaho Falls, ID (United States); Zhang, Y. [Idaho National Lab. (INL), Idaho Falls, ID (United States)

2017-06-01

This report summarizes the progress on modeling hydrogen diffusivity in Zr-based alloys. The presence of hydrogen (H) can detrimentally affect the mechanical properties of many metals and alloys. To mitigate these detrimental effects requires fundamental understanding of the thermodynamics and kinetics governing H pickup and hydride formation. In this work, we focus on H diffusion in Zr-based alloys by studying the effects of alloying elements and stress, factors that have been shown to strongly affect H pickup and hydride formation in nuclear fuel claddings. A recently developed accelerated kinetic Monte Carlo method is used for the study. It is found that for the alloys considered here, H diffusivity depends weakly on composition, with negligible effect at high temperatures in the range of 600-1200 K. Therefore, the small variation in compositions of these alloys is likely not a major cause of the very different H pickup rates. In contrast, stress strongly affects H diffusivity. This effect needs to be considered for studying hydride formation and delayed hydride cracking.

Electronic band structure calculations for GaxIn1−xASyP1−y alloys lattice matched to InP

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bechiri, A; Benmakhlouf, F; Allouache, H; Bacha, S; Bouarissa, N

2012-01-01

A pseudopotential formalism coupled with the virtual crystal approximation are applied to study the effect of compositional disorder upon electronic band structure of cubic Ga x In 1−x As y P 1−y quarternary alloys lattice matched to InP. The effects of compositional variations are properly included in the calculations. Very good agreement is obtained between the calculated values and the available experimental data for the lattice–matched alloy to InP. The absorption at the fundamental optical gaps is found to be direct within a whole range of the y composition whatever the lattice-matching to the substrate of interest. The alloy system Ga x In 1−x As y P 1−y lattice matched to InP is suggested to be suitable for an efficient light emitting device (ELED) material.

Magnesium secondary alloys: Alloy design for magnesium alloys with improved tolerance limits against impurities

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Blawert, C., E-mail: carsten.blawert@gkss.d [GKSS Forschungszentrum Geesthacht GmbH, Max-Planck-Str. 1, 21502 Geesthacht (Germany); Fechner, D.; Hoeche, D.; Heitmann, V.; Dietzel, W.; Kainer, K.U. [GKSS Forschungszentrum Geesthacht GmbH, Max-Planck-Str. 1, 21502 Geesthacht (Germany); Zivanovic, P.; Scharf, C.; Ditze, A.; Groebner, J.; Schmid-Fetzer, R. [TU Clausthal, Institut fuer Metallurgie, Robert-Koch-Str. 42, 38678 Clausthal-Zellerfeld (Germany)

2010-07-15

The development of secondary magnesium alloys requires a completely different concept compared with standard alloys which obtain their corrosion resistance by reducing the levels of impurities below certain alloy and process depending limits. The present approach suitable for Mg-Al based cast and wrought alloys uses a new concept replacing the {beta}-phase by {tau}-phase, which is able to incorporate more impurities while being electro-chemically less detrimental to the matrix. The overall experimental effort correlating composition, microstructure and corrosion resistance was reduced by using thermodynamic calculations to optimise the alloy composition. The outcome is a new, more impurity tolerant alloy class with a composition between the standard AZ and ZC systems having sufficient ductility and corrosion properties comparable to the high purity standard alloys.

Influence of defects and disorder on anomalous Hall effect and spin Seebeck effect on permalloy and Heusler compounds

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Vilanova Vidal, Enrique

2012-09-19

In this work Heusler thin films have been prepared and their transport properties have been studied. Of particularly interest is the anomalous Hall effect (AHE). The effect is a long known but still not fully understood transport effect. Most theory papers focus on the influence of one particular contribution to the AHE. Actual measured experimental data, however, often are not in accordance with idealized assumptions. This thesis discusses the data analysis for materials with low residual resistivity ratios. As prototypical materials, half metallic Heusler compounds are studied. Here, the influence of defects and disorder is apparent in a material with a complex topology of the Fermi surface. Using films with different degrees of disorder, the different scattering mechanisms can be separated. For Co{sub 2}FeSi{sub 0.6}Al{sub 0.4} and Co{sub 2}FeGa{sub 0.5}Ge{sub 0.5}, the AHE induced by B2-type disorder and temperature-dependent scattering is positive, while DO{sub 3}-type disorder and possible intrinsic contributions possess a negative sign. For these compounds, magneto-optical Kerr effects (MOKE) are investigated. First order contributions as a function of intrinsic and extrinsic parameters are qualitatively analyzed. The relation between the crystalline ordering and the second order contributions to the MOKE signal is studied. In addition, sets of the Heusler compound Co{sub 2}MnAl thin films were grown on MgO(100) and Si(100) substrates by radio frequency magnetron sputtering. Composition, magnetic and transport properties were studied systematically for samples deposited at different conditions. In particular, the anomalous Hall effect resistivity presents an extraordinarily temperature independent behavior in a moderate magnetic field range from 0 to 0.6 T. The off-diagonal transport at temperatures up to 300 C was analyzed. The data show the suitability of the material for Hall sensors working well above room temperature. Recently, the spin Seebeck effect

Ab initio calculations of mechanical properties of bcc W-Re-Os random alloys: effects of transmutation of W.

Science.gov (United States)

Li, Xiaojie; Schönecker, Stephan; Li, Ruihuan; Li, Xiaoqing; Wang, Yuanyuan; Zhao, Jijun; Johansson, Börje; Vitos, Levente

2016-06-03

To examine the effect of neutron transmutation on tungsten as the first wall material of fusion reactors, the elastic properties of W 1-x-y  Re x  Os y (0  ⩽  x, y  ⩽  6%) random alloys in body centered cubic (bcc) structure are investigated systematically using the all-electron exact muffin-tin orbitals (EMTO) method in combination with the coherent-potential approximation (CPA). The calculated lattice constant and elastic properties of pure W are consistent with available experiments. Both Os and Re additions reduce the lattice constant and increase the bulk modulus of W, with Os having the stronger effect. The polycrystalline shear modulus, Young's modulus and the Debye temperature increase (decrease) with the addition of Re (Os). Except for C 11 , the other elastic parameters including C 12 , C 44 , Cauchy pressure, Poisson ratio, B/G, increase as a function of Re and Os concentration. The variations of the latter three parameters and the trend in the ratio of cleavage energy to shear modulus for the most dominant slip system indicate that the ductility of the alloy enhances with increasing Re and Os content. The calculated elastic anisotropy of bcc W slightly increases with the concentration of both alloying elements. The estimated melting temperatures of the W-Re-Os alloy suggest that Re or Os addition will reduce the melting temperature of pure W solid. The classical Labusch-Nabarro model for solid-solution hardening predicts larger strengthening effects in W 1-y  Os y than in W 1-x  Re x . A strong correlation between C' and the fcc-bcc structural energy difference for W 1-x-y  Re x  Os y is revealed demonstrating that canonical band structure dictates the alloying effect on C'. The structural energy difference is exploited to estimate the alloying effect on the ideal tensile strength in the [0 0 1] direction.

Ab initio, mean field theory and series expansions calculations study of electronic and magnetic properties of antiferromagnetic MnSe alloys

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Masrour, R., E-mail: rachidmasrour@hotmail.com [Laboratory of Materials, Processes, Environment and Quality, Cady Ayyed University, National School of Applied Sciences, BP. 63, 46000 Safi (Morocco); LMPHE (URAC 12), Faculty of Science, Mohammed V-Agdal University, Rabat (Morocco); Hlil, E.K. [Institut Néel, CNRS et Université Joseph Fourier, BP 166, F-38042 Grenoble Cedex 9 (France); Hamedoun, M. [Institute of Nanomaterials and Nanotechnologies, MAScIR, Rabat (Morocco); Benyoussef, A. [LMPHE (URAC 12), Faculty of Science, Mohammed V-Agdal University, Rabat (Morocco); Institute of Nanomaterials and Nanotechnologies, MAScIR, Rabat (Morocco); Hassan II Academy of Science and Technology, Rabat (Morocco); Mounkachi, O.; El Moussaoui, H. [Institute of Nanomaterials and Nanotechnologies, MAScIR, Rabat (Morocco)

2014-06-01

Self-consistent ab initio calculations, based on DFT (Density Functional Theory) approach and using FLAPW (Full potential Linear Augmented Plane Wave) method, are performed to investigate both electronic and magnetic properties of the MnSe lattice. Polarized spin and spin–orbit coupling are included in calculations within the framework of the antiferromagnetic state between two adjacent Mn lattices. Magnetic moments considered to lie along (001) axes are computed. Obtained data from ab initio calculations are used as input for the high temperature series expansions (HTSEs) calculations to compute other magnetic parameters. The zero-field high temperature static susceptibility series of the spin −4.28 nearest-neighbor Ising model on face centered cubic (fcc) and lattices is thoroughly analyzed by means of a power series coherent anomaly method (CAM). The exchange interaction between the magnetic atoms and the Néel temperature are deduced using the mean filed and HTSEs theories. - Highlights: • Ab initio calculations are used to investigate both electronic and magnetic properties of the MnSe alloys. • Obtained data from ab initio calculations are used as input for the HTSEs. • The Néel temperature is obtained for MnSe alloys.

Valence Band Structure of InAs1-xBix and InSb1-xBix Alloy Semiconductors Calculated Using Valence Band Anticrossing Model

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

D. P. Samajdar

2014-01-01

Full Text Available The valence band anticrossing model has been used to calculate the heavy/light hole and spin-orbit split-off energies in InAs1-xBix and InSb1-xBix alloy systems. It is found that both the heavy/light hole, and spin-orbit split E+ levels move upwards in energy with an increase in Bi content in the alloy, whereas the split E− energy for the holes shows a reverse trend. The model is also used to calculate the reduction of band gap energy with an increase in Bi mole fraction. The calculated values of band gap variation agree well with the available experimental data.

Elastic properties of fcc Fe-Mn-X (X = Cr, Co, Ni, Cu) alloys studied by the combinatorial thin film approach and ab initio calculations.

Science.gov (United States)

Reeh, S; Kasprzak, M; Klusmann, C D; Stalf, F; Music, D; Ekholm, M; Abrikosov, I A; Schneider, J M

2013-06-19

The elastic properties of fcc Fe-Mn-X (X = Cr, Co, Ni, Cu) alloys with additions of up to 8 at.% X were studied by combinatorial thin film growth and characterization and by ab initio calculations using the disordered local moments (DLM) approach. The lattice parameter and Young's modulus values change only marginally with X. The calculations and experiments are in good agreement. We demonstrate that the elastic properties of transition metal alloyed Fe-Mn can be predicted by the DLM model.

A Review of Solid-Solution Models of High-Entropy Alloys Based on Ab Initio Calculations

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Fuyang Tian

2017-11-01

Full Text Available Similar to the importance of XRD in experiments, ab initio calculations, as a powerful tool, have been applied to predict the new potential materials and investigate the intrinsic properties of materials in theory. As a typical solid-solution material, the large degree of uncertainty of high-entropy alloys (HEAs results in the difficulty of ab initio calculations application to HEAs. The present review focuses on the available ab initio based solid-solution models (virtual lattice approximation, coherent potential approximation, special quasirandom structure, similar local atomic environment, maximum-entropy method, and hybrid Monte Carlo/molecular dynamics and their applications and limits in single phase HEAs.

First-principles calculation on dilute magnetic alloys in zinc blend crystal structure

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ullah, Hamid; Inayat, Kalsoom; Khan, S.A; Mohammad, S.; Ali, A.; Alahmed, Z.A.; Reshak, A.H.

2015-01-01

Ab-initio calculations are performed to investigate the structural, electronic and magnetic properties of spin-polarized diluted magnetic alloys in zinc blende structure. The first-principles study is carried out on Mn doped III–V semiconductors. The calculated band structures, electronic properties and magnetic properties of Ga 1−x Mn x X (X=P, As) compounds reveal that Ga 0.75 Mn 0.25 P is half metallic turned to be metallic with increasing x to 0.5 and 0.75, whereas substitute P by As cause to maintain the half-metallicity nature in both of Ga 0.75 Mn 0.25 As and Ga 0.5 Mn 0.5 As and tune Ga 0.25 Mn 0.75 As to be metallic. Calculated total magnetic moments and the robustness of half-metallicity of Ga 0.75 Mn 0.25 P, Ga 0.75 Mn 0.25 As and Ga 0.5 Mn 0.5 As with respect to the variation in lattice parameters are also discussed. The predicted theoretical evidence shows that some Mn-doped III–V semiconductors can be effectively used in spintronic devices

Elastic properties of fcc Fe–Mn–X (X = Cr, Co, Ni, Cu) alloys studied by the combinatorial thin film approach and ab initio calculations

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Reeh, S; Kasprzak, M; Klusmann, C D; Stalf, F; Music, D; Schneider, J M; Ekholm, M; Abrikosov, I A

2013-01-01

The elastic properties of fcc Fe–Mn–X (X = Cr, Co, Ni, Cu) alloys with additions of up to 8 at.% X were studied by combinatorial thin film growth and characterization and by ab initio calculations using the disordered local moments (DLM) approach. The lattice parameter and Young’s modulus values change only marginally with X. The calculations and experiments are in good agreement. We demonstrate that the elastic properties of transition metal alloyed Fe–Mn can be predicted by the DLM model. (paper)

Vacancy site occupation by Co and Ir in half-Heusler ZrNiSn and conversion of the thermoelectric properties from n-type to p-type

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kimura, Yoshisato; Tanoguchi, Toshiyasu; Kita, Takuji

2010-01-01

The n-type thermoelectric properties of the half-Heusler compound ZrNiSn can be converted to p-type by the addition of Co and Ir. We found that Co and Ir atoms preferably occupy the vacancy sites instead of substituting at Ni sites. This implies that the phase stability of the compound gradually changes towards that of the Heusler compound Zr(Ni,M) 2 Sn, where M is Co and/or Ir. The occupation of vacancy sites by Co and Ir atoms leads to a drastic reduction in lattice thermal conductivity owing to the enhancement of phonon scattering by the solid solution effect.

Energy gap formation mechanism through the interference phenomena of electrons in face-centered cubic elements and compounds with the emphasis on half-Heusler and Heusler compounds

Science.gov (United States)

Mizutani, U.; Sato, H.

2018-05-01

Many face-centred cubic elements and compounds with the number of atoms per unit cell N equal to 8, 12 and 16 are known to be stabilised by forming either a band gap or a pseudogap at the Fermi level. They are conveniently expressed as cF8, cF12 and cF16, respectively, in the Pearson symbol. From the cF8 family, we worked on three tetravalent elements C (diamond), Si and Ge, SZn-type AsGa compound and NaCl-type compounds like BiLu, AsSc, etc. From the cF12 family, more than 80 compounds were selected, with a particular emphasis on ABC- and half-Heusler-type ternary equiatomic compounds. Among cF16 compounds, both the Heusler compounds ABC2 and Zintl compounds were studied. We revealed that, regardless of whether or not the transition metal (TM) and/or rare-earth (RE) elements are involved as constituent elements, the energy gap formation mechanism for cF8, cF12 and cF16 compounds can be universally discussed in terms of interference phenomenon of itinerant electrons with set of reciprocal lattice planes with ? = 8, 11 and 12, where ? refers to square of the critical reciprocal of lattice vector of an fcc lattice. The number of itinerant electrons per unit cell, e/uc, for all these band gap/pseudogap-bearing compounds is found to fall on a universal line called "3/2-power law" when plotted against ? on a logarithmic scale. This proves the validity of the fulfilment of the interference condition ? in conformity with other pseudogap compounds with different crystal symmetries and different sizes of the unit cell reported in literature.

Electric Field Tuning Non-volatile Magnetism in Half-Metallic Alloys Co2FeAl/Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3-PbTiO3 Heterostructure

Science.gov (United States)

Dunzhu, Gesang; Wang, Fenglong; Zhou, Cai; Jiang, Changjun

2018-03-01

We reported the non-volatile electric field-mediated magnetic properties in the half-metallic Heusler alloy Co2FeAl/Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3-PbTiO3 heterostructure at room temperature. The remanent magnetization with different applied electric field along [100] and [01-1] directions was achieved, which showed the non-volatile remanent magnetization driven by an electric field. The two giant reversible and stable remanent magnetization states were obtained by applying pulsed electric field. This can be attributed to the piezostrain effect originating from the piezoelectric substrate, which can be used for magnetoelectric-based memory devices.

Valence band structure of InAs(1-x)Bi(x) and InSb(1-x)Bi(x) alloy semiconductors calculated using valence band anticrossing model.

Science.gov (United States)

Samajdar, D P; Dhar, S

2014-01-01

The valence band anticrossing model has been used to calculate the heavy/light hole and spin-orbit split-off energies in InAs(1-x)Bi(x) and InSb(1-x)Bi(x) alloy systems. It is found that both the heavy/light hole, and spin-orbit split E + levels move upwards in energy with an increase in Bi content in the alloy, whereas the split E - energy for the holes shows a reverse trend. The model is also used to calculate the reduction of band gap energy with an increase in Bi mole fraction. The calculated values of band gap variation agree well with the available experimental data.

Growth, electrical, structural, and magnetic properties of half-Heusler CoT i1 -xF exSb

Science.gov (United States)

Harrington, S. D.; Rice, A. D.; Brown-Heft, T. L.; Bonef, B.; Sharan, A.; McFadden, A. P.; Logan, J. A.; Pendharkar, M.; Feldman, M. M.; Mercan, O.; Petukhov, A. G.; Janotti, A.; Colakerol Arslan, L.; Palmstrøm, C. J.

2018-01-01

Epitaxial thin films of the substitutionally alloyed half-Heusler series CoT i1 -xF exSb were grown by molecular beam epitaxy on InAlAs/InP(001) substrates for concentrations 0.0 ≤x ≤1.0 . The influence of Fe on the structural, electronic, and magnetic properties was studied and compared to that expected from density functional theory. The films are epitaxial and single crystalline, as measured by reflection high-energy electron diffraction and x-ray diffraction. Using in situ x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, only small changes in the valence band are detected for x ≤0.5 . For films with x ≥0.05 , ferromagnetism is observed in SQUID magnetometry with a saturation magnetization that scales linearly with Fe content. A dramatic decrease in the magnetic moment per formula unit occurs when the Fe is substitutionally alloyed on the Co site indicating a strong dependence on the magnetic moment with site occupancy. A crossover from both in-plane and out-of-plane magnetic moments to only in-plane moment occurs for higher concentrations of Fe. Ferromagnetic resonance indicates a transition from weak to strong interaction with a reduction in inhomogeneous broadening as Fe content is increased. Temperature-dependent transport reveals a semiconductor to metal transition with thermally activated behavior for x ≤0.5 . Anomalous Hall effect and large negative magnetoresistance (up to -18.5% at 100 kOe for x =0.3 ) are observed for higher Fe content films. Evidence of superparamagnetism for x =0.3 and 0.2 suggests, for moderate levels of Fe, that demixing of the CoT i1 -xF exSb films into Fe-rich and Fe-deficient regions may be present. Atom probe tomography is used to examine the Fe distribution in an x =0.3 film. Statistical analysis reveals a nonhomogeneous distribution of Fe atoms throughout the film, which is used to explain the observed magnetic and electrical behavior.

First-principles calculation on dilute magnetic alloys in zinc blend crystal structure

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ullah, Hamid, E-mail: hamidullah@yahoo.com [Department of Physics, Government Post Graduate Jahanzeb College, Saidu Sharif Swat (Pakistan); Inayat, Kalsoom [Department of Physics, Government Post Graduate Jahanzeb College, Saidu Sharif Swat (Pakistan); Khan, S.A; Mohammad, S. [Department of Physics, Materials Modeling Laboratory, Hazara University, Mansehra 21300 (Pakistan); Ali, A. [Department of Advanced Materials Science & Engineering, Hanseo University, Seosan-si, Chungnam-do 356-706 (Korea, Republic of); Alahmed, Z.A. [Department of Physics and Astronomy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451 (Saudi Arabia); Reshak, A.H. [New Technologies-Research Center, University of West Bohemia, Univerzitni 8, 306 14 Pilsen (Czech Republic); Center of Excellence Geopolymer and Green Technology, School of Material Engineering, University Malaysia Perlis, 01007 Kangar, Perlis (Malaysia)

2015-07-01

Ab-initio calculations are performed to investigate the structural, electronic and magnetic properties of spin-polarized diluted magnetic alloys in zinc blende structure. The first-principles study is carried out on Mn doped III–V semiconductors. The calculated band structures, electronic properties and magnetic properties of Ga{sub 1−x}Mn{sub x}X (X=P, As) compounds reveal that Ga{sub 0.75}Mn{sub 0.25}P is half metallic turned to be metallic with increasing x to 0.5 and 0.75, whereas substitute P by As cause to maintain the half-metallicity nature in both of Ga{sub 0.75}Mn{sub 0.25}As and Ga{sub 0.5}Mn{sub 0.5}As and tune Ga{sub 0.25}Mn{sub 0.75}As to be metallic. Calculated total magnetic moments and the robustness of half-metallicity of Ga{sub 0.75}Mn{sub 0.25}P, Ga{sub 0.75}Mn{sub 0.25}As and Ga{sub 0.5}Mn{sub 0.5}As with respect to the variation in lattice parameters are also discussed. The predicted theoretical evidence shows that some Mn-doped III–V semiconductors can be effectively used in spintronic devices.

Spin-polarized electron gas in Co2MSi/SrTiO3(M= Ti, V, Cr, Mn, and Fe) heterostructures

KAUST Repository

Nazir, S.

2016-06-08

Spin-polarized density functional theory is used to study the TiO2 terminated interfaces between the magnetic Heusler alloys Co2Si (M = Ti, V, Cr, Mn, and Fe) and the non-polar band insulator SrTiO3. The structural relaxation at the interface turns out to depend systematically on the lattice mis- match. Charge transfer from the Heusler alloys (mainly the M 3d orbitals) to the Ti dxy orbitals of the TiO2 interface layer is found to gradually grow from M = Ti to Fe, resulting in an electron gas with increasing density of spin-polarized charge carriers. (© 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH &Co. KGaA, Weinheim). © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim

Local versus global electronic properties of chalcopyrite alloys: X-ray absorption spectroscopy and ab initio calculations

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Sarmiento-Pérez, Rafael; Botti, Silvana, E-mail: silvana.botti@univ-lyon1.fr [Institut Lumière Matière and ETSF, UMR5306 Université Lyon 1-CNRS, Université de Lyon, F-69622 Villeurbanne Cedex (France); Schnohr, Claudia S., E-mail: c.schnohr@uni-jena.de [Institut für Festkörperphysik, Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena, Max-Wien-Platz 1, 07743 Jena (Germany); Lauermann, Iver [Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie, Hahn-Meitner Platz 1, 14109 Berlin (Germany); Rubio, Angel [Nano-Bio Spectroscopy Group and ETSF Scientific Development Centre, Departamento de Física de Materiales, Centro de Física de Materiales CSIC-MPC and DIPC, Universidad del País Vasco UPV/EHU, Avenida de Tolosa 72, E-20018 San Sebastián (Spain); Fritz Haber Institute, Max Planck Society, Faradayweg 4-6, 14195 Berlin (Germany); Johnson, Benjamin, E-mail: benjamin.johnson@alumni.tu-berlin.de [Fritz Haber Institute, Max Planck Society, Faradayweg 4-6, 14195 Berlin (Germany)

2014-09-07

Element-specific unoccupied electronic states of Cu(In, Ga)S{sub 2} were studied as a function of the In/Ga ratio by combining X-ray absorption spectroscopy with density functional theory calculations. The S absorption edge shifts with changing In/Ga ratio as expected from the variation of the band gap. In contrast, the cation edge positions are largely independent of composition despite the changing band gap. This unexpected behavior is well reproduced by our calculations and originates from the dependence of the electronic states on the local atomic environment. The changing band gap arises from a changing spatial average of these localized states with changing alloy composition.

Preparation of Zr50Al15-xNi10Cu25Yx amorphous powders by mechanical alloying and thermodynamic calculation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Long, Woyun; Li, Jing; Lu, Anxian

2013-01-01

Amorphous Zr 50 Al 15-x Ni 10 Cu 25 Y x powders were fabricated by mechanical alloying at a low rotation speed from commercial pure element powders. The beneficial effect of Al partially substituted by Y in Zr 50 Al 15 Ni 10 Cu 25 on glass-forming ability was investigated. The as-milled powders were characterized by X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. The results show that partial substitution of Al by Y can improve the glass-forming ability of Zr 50 Al 15 Ni 10 Cu 25 Y alloy. Thermodynamic calculation of equivalent free energy shows that Zr 50 Al 13.8 Ni 10 Cu 25 Y 1.2 alloy has the highest glass-forming ability, which is in good agreement with the report of orthogonal experiments. (author)

Growth and Electronic Structure of Heusler Compounds for Use in Electron Spin Based Devices

Science.gov (United States)

2015-06-01

this procedure seemed to succeed, with the successful growth of PtLuSb films on GdSb. However, upon examination of x-ray diffrac- 55 tion data, it was...0.33, 0.66, and 1 were all grown as a series, in immediate succession without changing the Co or Si source temperatures so as to eliminate any...39(1):1–50, May 2011. doi:10.1016/j.progsolidstchem.2011.02.001. [3] F. Heusler, W. Starck, and E. Haupt. Uber magnetische manganlegierun- gen

Valence Band Structure of InAs1−xBix and InSb1−xBix Alloy Semiconductors Calculated Using Valence Band Anticrossing Model

Science.gov (United States)

Samajdar, D. P.; Dhar, S.

2014-01-01

The valence band anticrossing model has been used to calculate the heavy/light hole and spin-orbit split-off energies in InAs1−xBix and InSb1−xBix alloy systems. It is found that both the heavy/light hole, and spin-orbit split E + levels move upwards in energy with an increase in Bi content in the alloy, whereas the split E − energy for the holes shows a reverse trend. The model is also used to calculate the reduction of band gap energy with an increase in Bi mole fraction. The calculated values of band gap variation agree well with the available experimental data. PMID:24592181

Mössbauer studies of hyperfine fields in disordered Fe CrAl

Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

magnetic hyperfine field, the average hyperfine field follows the ´T Tcµ3 2 law. The paramagnetic part of the hyperfine field is explained in terms of the clustering of Cr ... These alloys offer excellent systems for studying magnetic interactions. Large volumes of studies have been devoted to Heusler alloys bearing the general ...

Identification of Optimum Magnetic Behavior of NanoCrystalline CmFeAl Type Heusler Alloy Powders Using Response Surface Methodology

Science.gov (United States)

Srivastava, Y.; Srivastava, S.; Boriwal, L.

2016-09-01

Mechanical alloying is a novelistic solid state process that has received considerable attention due to many advantages over other conventional processes. In the present work, Co2FeAl healer alloy powder, prepared successfully from premix basic powders of Cobalt (Co), Iron (Fe) and Aluminum (Al) in stoichiometric of 60Co-26Fe-14Al (weight %) by novelistic mechano-chemical route. Magnetic properties of mechanically alloyed powders were characterized by vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). 2 factor 5 level design matrix was applied to experiment process. Experimental results were used for response surface methodology. Interaction between the input process parameters and the response has been established with the help of regression analysis. Further analysis of variance technique was applied to check the adequacy of developed model and significance of process parameters. Test case study was performed with those parameters, which was not selected for main experimentation but range was same. Response surface methodology, the process parameters must be optimized to obtain improved magnetic properties. Further optimum process parameters were identified using numerical and graphical optimization techniques.

Half-Heusler (TiZrHf)NiSn Unileg Module with High Powder Density.

Science.gov (United States)

Populoh, Sascha; Brunko, Oliver C; Gałązka, Krzysztof; Xie, Wenjie; Weidenkaff, Anke

2013-03-27

(TiZrHf)NiSn half-Heusler compounds were prepared by arc melting and their thermoelectric properties characterized in the temperature range between 325 K and 857 K, resulting in a Figure of Merit ZT ≈ 0.45. Furthermore, the prepared samples were used to construct a unileg module. This module was characterized in a homemade thermoelectric module measurement stand and yielded 275 mW/cm² and a maximum volumetric power density of 700 mW/cm³. This was reached using normal silver paint as a contacting material; from an improved contacting, much higher power yields are to be expected.

Calculation of self-consistent potentials for substitutionally disordered systems with application to the Ag/sub x/-Pd/sub 1-x/ alloy series

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Winter, H.; Stocks, G.M.

1983-01-01

Previous Korringa-Kohn-Rostoker coherent-potential-approximation electronic-structure calculations for substitutionally random alloys have been based on ad hoc potentials. The lack of procedures suitable to provide self-consistent, parameter-free potentials prevented computations for systems consisting of dissimilar atoms and is also the reason why quantities like, for example, cohesive energies or lattice constants, have not so far been evaluated for systems of similar constituents. We present in full detail a generally applicable scheme devised for calculating the self-consistent electronic structures of substitutionally disordered systems. Its feasibility is demonstrated by presenting the results obtained for the Ag/sub x/Pd/sub 1-x/ alloy series. They are compared with those of former non-self-consistent calculations which use Mattheiss prescription potentials and the α = 1 Slater exchange, whereas the von Barth--Hedin expression is employed in our work. The differences are perceptible and have to be understood as combined self-consistency and exchange-correlation effects. .ID BW2039 .PG 905 909

Site preference and phase stability of Ti doping Ni–Mn–Ga shape memory alloys from first-principles calculations

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gao, Zhiyong; Chen, Baishu; Meng, Xianglong; Cai, Wei

2013-01-01

Highlights: •Site preference and phase stability of NiMnGaTi are studied by first-principles. •The Ti atoms prefer to occupy the Ga sites in the Ni 2 MnGa austenitic phase. •The phase stability becomes worse when Ga is replaced by Ti. •The phase stability is discussed based on the densities of states. -- Abstract: The effects of Ti content on martensitic transformation and phase stability of Ni 50 Mn 25 Ga 25−x Ti x shape memory alloys were investigated from first-principles calculations based on density functional theory. The formation energy results indicate that the added Ti preferentially occupies the Ga sites in Ni 2 MnGa alloy due to the lowest formation energy. The total energy difference between austenite and martensite increases with Ti alloying, being relevant to the experimentally reported changes in martensitic transformation temperature. The phase stability of Ni 50 Mn 25 Ga 25−x Ti x austenite decreases with increasing Ti content, which results from the reduced Ni 3d–Mn 3d hybridization when Ga is replaced by Ti

Modified analytic EAM potentials for the binary immiscible alloy systems

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Fang, F.; Shu, X.L.; Deng, H.Q.; Hu, W.Y.; Zhu, M.

2003-01-01

Modified analytic embedded atom method (MAEAM) type potentials have been constructed for seven binary immiscible alloy systems: Al-Pb, Ag-Ni, Fe-Cu, Ag-Cu, Cu-Ta, Cu-W and Cu-Co. The potentials are fitted to the lattice constant, cohesive energy, unrelaxed monovacancy formation energy and elastic constants for only pure metals which consist the immiscible alloy systems. In order to test the reliability of the constructed MAEAM potentials, formation enthalpies of disordered alloys for those seven binary immiscible alloy systems have been calculated. The calculated results are in general agreement with the experimental data available and those theoretical results calculated by other authors. As only very limited experimental information is available for alloy properties in immiscible alloy systems, the MAEAM is demonstrated to be a reasonable method to construct the interatomic potentials for immiscible alloy systems because only the properties of pure elements are needed in calculation

Phase stability of transition metals and alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hixson, R.S.; Schiferl, D.; Wills, J.M.; Hill, M.A.

1997-01-01

This is the final report of a three-year, Laboratory-Directed Research and Development (LDRD) project at the Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL). This project was focused on resolving unexplained differences in calculated and measured phase transition pressures in transition metals. Part of the approach was to do new, higher accuracy calculations of transmission pressures for group 4B and group 6B metals. Theory indicates that the transition pressures for these baseline metals should change if alloyed with a d-electron donor metal, and calculations done using the Local Density Approximation (LDA) and the Virtual Crystal Approximation (VCA) indicate that this is true. Alloy systems were calculated for Ti, Zr and Hf based alloys with various solute concentrations. The second part of the program was to do new Diamond Anvil Cell (DAC) measurements to experimentally verify calculational results. Alloys were prepared for these systems with grain size suitable for Diamond Anvil Cell experiments. Experiments were done on pure Ti as well as Ti-V and Ti-Ta alloys. Measuring unambiguous transition pressures for these systems proved difficult, but a new technique developed yielded good results

The distribution trends and site preferences of alloying elements in precipitates within a Zr alloy: A combined first-principles and experimental study

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Luan, B.F., E-mail: bfluan@cqu.edu.cn [College of Materials Science and Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044 (China); Wang, J.M.; Qiu, R.S.; Tao, B.R.; He, W.J. [College of Materials Science and Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044 (China); Zhang, X.Y.; Liu, R.P. [State Key Laboratory of Metastable Materials Science and Technology, Yanshan University, Qinhuangdao 066004 (China); Liu, Q., E-mail: qingliu@cqu.edu.cn [College of Materials Science and Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044 (China)

2016-09-05

Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy in scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM-EDS) technique and first-principles calculation are jointly utilized to investigate the distribution trends and site preferences of alloying elements in the precipitates within Zr-1.0Cr-0.4Fe-0.4Mo-0.4Bi alloy. Based on selected area electron diffraction (SAED) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) results, the precipitates within the studied alloy are confirmed to be ZrCr{sub 2}-based Laves phase with FCC (C15) type structure. The STEM-EDS elemental mapping is acquired to clarify the distribution trends of alloying elements in precipitates, i.e. Fe>Mo>Bi. To better verify this distribution behavior, substitutional formation energies and equilibrium concentrations of ternary alloying elements in ZrCr{sub 2} Laves phase are calculated by first-principles. The calculated results show a good consistence with the STEM-EDS results. In addition, the site preferences of ternary alloying elements in ZrCr{sub 2} Laves phase are predicted by the calculation of transfer energies. Finally, the reasons accounting for different distribution trends and site preferences of alloying elements in ZrCr{sub 2} Laves phase are discussed in terms of density of states, which attributed to the pseudogap effect and hybridizations between atoms. - Highlights: • Clarified the distribution trends of Fe>Mo>Bi in precipitates by STEM-EDS. • Verified the experimental results by first-principles calculation. • Predicted the site preferences of alloying elements by first-principles calculation. • Hybridization and pseudogap lead to the strong distribution and site preferences.

Thermoelectric performance and the role of anti-site disorder in the 24-electron Heusler TiFe2Sn

Science.gov (United States)

Buffon, Malinda L. C.; Laurita, Geneva; Lamontagne, Leo; Levin, Emily E.; Mooraj, Shahryar; Lloyd, Demetrious L.; White, Natalie; Pollock, Tresa M.; Seshadri, Ram

2017-10-01

Heusler compounds XY 2 Z with 24 valence electrons per formula unit are potential thermoelectric materials, given their thermal and chemical stability and their relatively earth-abundant constituent elements. We present results on the 24-electron compound TiFe2Sn here. First principles calculations on this compound suggest semiconducting behavior. A relatively flat conduction band that could be associated with a high Seebeck coefficient upon electron doping is found. A series of compounds have been prepared and characterized using a combination of synchrotron x-ray and neutron diffraction studies to understand the effects of site order/disorder phenomena and n-type doping. Samples fabricated by a three step processing approach were subjected to high temperature Seebeck and electrical resistivity measurements. Ti:Fe anti-site disorder is present in the stoichiometric compound and these defects are reduced when starting Ti-rich compositions are employed. Additionally, we investigate control of the Seebeck coefficient through the introduction of carriers through the substitution of Sb on the Sn site in these intrinsically p-type materials.

Thermoelectric performance and the role of anti-site disorder in the 24-electron Heusler TiFe2Sn.

Science.gov (United States)

Buffon, Malinda L C; Laurita, Geneva; Lamontagne, Leo; Levin, Emily E; Mooraj, Shahryar; Lloyd, Demetrious L; White, Natalie; Pollock, Tresa M; Seshadri, Ram

2017-10-11

Heusler compounds XY 2 Z with 24 valence electrons per formula unit are potential thermoelectric materials, given their thermal and chemical stability and their relatively earth-abundant constituent elements. We present results on the 24-electron compound TiFe 2 Sn here. First principles calculations on this compound suggest semiconducting behavior. A relatively flat conduction band that could be associated with a high Seebeck coefficient upon electron doping is found. A series of compounds have been prepared and characterized using a combination of synchrotron x-ray and neutron diffraction studies to understand the effects of site order/disorder phenomena and n-type doping. Samples fabricated by a three step processing approach were subjected to high temperature Seebeck and electrical resistivity measurements. Ti:Fe anti-site disorder is present in the stoichiometric compound and these defects are reduced when starting Ti-rich compositions are employed. Additionally, we investigate control of the Seebeck coefficient through the introduction of carriers through the substitution of Sb on the Sn site in these intrinsically p-type materials.

Method for estimating the lattice thermal conductivity of metallic alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Yarbrough, D.W.; Williams, R.K.

1978-08-01

A method is described for calculating the lattice thermal conductivity of alloys as a function of temperature and composition for temperatures above theta/sub D//2 using readily available information about the atomic species present in the alloy. The calculation takes into account phonon interactions with point defects, electrons and other phonons. Comparisons between experimental thermal conductivities (resistivities) and calculated values are discussed for binary alloys of semiconductors, alkali halides and metals. A discussion of the theoretical background is followed by sufficient numerical work to facilitate the calculation of lattice thermal conductivity of an alloy for which no conductivity data exist

Electrical conductivity in random alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mookerjee, A.; Thakur, P.K.; Yussouff, M.

1984-12-01

Based on the augmented space formalism introduced by one of us and the use of the Ward identity and the Bethe-Sapeter equation, a formalism has been developed for the calculation of electrical conductivity for random alloys. A simple application is made to a model case, and it is argued that the formalism enables us to carry out viable calculations on more realistic models of alloys. (author)

Electrical conductivity in random alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mookerjee, A.; Yussouff, M.

1983-06-01

Starting from the augmented space formalism by one of us, and the use of the Ward identity and Bethe Salpeter equation, a complete formalism for the calculation of the electrical conductivity in tight-binding models of random binary alloys has been developed. The formalism is practical in the sense that viable calculations may be carried out with its help for realistics models of alloy systems. (author)

Standard enthalpies of formation of selected Rh2YZ Heusler compounds

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Yin, Ming; Nash, Philip

2015-01-01

The standard enthalpies of formation (Δ f H°) of selected ternary Rh-based Rh 2 YZ (Y = Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Ru, Ti, V; Z = Al, Ga, In, Si, Ge, Sn) compounds were measured using high temperature direct reaction calorimetry. The measured standard enthalpies of formation (in kJ/mol of atoms) are, for the Heusler compound Rh 2 MnSn (−40.1 ± 3.6), for the B2-structured compounds: Rh 2 FeAl (−48.5 ± 2.9); Rh 2 MnAl (−72.4 ± 2.7); Rh 2 MnGa (−55.3 ± 2.0); Rh 2 MnIn (−35.3 ± 1.9), for the tetragonal compounds: Rh 2 FeSn (−28.9 ± 1.3); Rh 2 TiAl (−97.6 ± 2.2); Rh 2 TiGa (−79.0 ± 1.8); Rh 2 TiSn (−74.7 ± 3.1). Values are compared with those from first principles calculations in published papers and the Open Quantum Materials Database (OQMD). Lattice parameters of these compounds are determined using X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD). Microstructures were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS). - Highlights: • Standard enthalpies of formation of Rh 2 YZ were measured using a drop calorimeter. • Measured enthalpies agree with first principles data in general. • Lattice parameters and related phase relationships were consistent with literature data. • Rh 2 TiSn of tI8 structure were reported for the first time.

Combinatorial thin film materials science: From alloy discovery and optimization to alloy design

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Gebhardt, Thomas, E-mail: gebhardt@mch.rwth-aachen.de; Music, Denis; Takahashi, Tetsuya; Schneider, Jochen M.

2012-06-30

This paper provides an overview of modern alloy development, from discovery and optimization towards alloy design, based on combinatorial thin film materials science. The combinatorial approach, combining combinatorial materials synthesis of thin film composition-spreads with high-throughput property characterization has proven to be a powerful tool to delineate composition-structure-property relationships, and hence to efficiently identify composition windows with enhanced properties. Furthermore, and most importantly for alloy design, theoretical models and hypotheses can be critically appraised. Examples for alloy discovery, optimization, and alloy design of functional as well as structural materials are presented. Using Fe-Mn based alloys as an example, we show that the combination of modern electronic-structure calculations with the highly efficient combinatorial thin film composition-spread method constitutes an effective tool for knowledge-based alloy design.

Combinatorial thin film materials science: From alloy discovery and optimization to alloy design

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gebhardt, Thomas; Music, Denis; Takahashi, Tetsuya; Schneider, Jochen M.

2012-01-01

This paper provides an overview of modern alloy development, from discovery and optimization towards alloy design, based on combinatorial thin film materials science. The combinatorial approach, combining combinatorial materials synthesis of thin film composition-spreads with high-throughput property characterization has proven to be a powerful tool to delineate composition–structure–property relationships, and hence to efficiently identify composition windows with enhanced properties. Furthermore, and most importantly for alloy design, theoretical models and hypotheses can be critically appraised. Examples for alloy discovery, optimization, and alloy design of functional as well as structural materials are presented. Using Fe-Mn based alloys as an example, we show that the combination of modern electronic-structure calculations with the highly efficient combinatorial thin film composition-spread method constitutes an effective tool for knowledge-based alloy design.

Transport properties of Heusler Compound Mn3Si under high pressure

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Takaesu, Y; Uchima, K; Nakamura, S; Yogi, M; Niki, H; Hedo, M; Nakama, T; Tomiyoshi, S

2014-01-01

The electrical resistivity ρ and the thermopower S of the single crystalline sample of the Heusler compound Mn 3 Si have been measured in the temperature range between 2 and 300 K under high pressures up to 2.2 GPa. The temperature variations of ρ and S indicate the characteristic features at the Néel temperature T N . An additional anomaly in S(T), related to the 3Q satellites in SDW, is observed at P > 1 GPa, and it disappears at P > 1 GPa. The Néel temperature, obtained from ρ(T) and S(T) curves, increases with increasing pressure. The pressure dependences of the residual resistivity and the thermopower at T = 2 K show the discontinuous changes at P ≈ 1 GPa, indicating a pressure induced phase transition

Alloying element's substitution in titanium alloy with improved oxidation resistance and enhanced magnetic properties

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Yu, Ang-Yang, E-mail: ayyu@imr.ac.cn; Wei, Hua; Hu, Qing-Miao; Yang, Rui

2017-01-15

First-principles method is used to characterize segregation and magnetic properties of alloyed Ti/TiO{sub 2}interface. We calculate the segregation energy of the doped Ti/TiO{sub 2} interface to investigate alloying atom's distribution. The oxidation resistance of Ti/TiO{sub 2} interface is enhanced by elements Fe and Ni but reduced by element Co. Magnetism could be produced by alloying elements such as Co, Fe and Ni in the bulk of titanium and the surface of Ti at Ti/TiO{sub 2} interface. The presence of these alloying elements could transform the non-magnetic titanium alloys into magnetic systems. We have also calculated the temperature dependence of magnetic permeability for the doped and pure Ti/TiO{sub 2} interfaces. Alloying effects on the Curie temperature of the Ti/TiO{sub 2} interface have been elaborated. - Highlights: • We consider the segregation of alloying atoms on the Ti(101¯0)/TiO{sub 2}(100) interface. • Alloying the Ti//TiO{sub 2} interface with Fe and Ni has a great advantage of improving the oxidation resistance. • Fe, Co and Nican enhance the magnetic properties of the investigated system. • The variation of permeability with temperature has been presented.

Kinetics of radiation-induced segregation in ternary alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lam, N.O.; Kumar, A.; Wiedersich, H.

1982-01-01

Model calculations of radiation-induced segregation in ternary alloys have been performed, using a simple theory. The theoretical model describes the coupling between the fluxes of radiation-induced defects and alloying elements in an alloy A-B-C by partitioning the defect fluxes into those occurring via A-, B-, and C-atoms, and the atom fluxes into those taking place via vacancies and interstitials. The defect and atom fluxes can be expressed in terms of concentrations and concentration gradients of all the species present. With reasonable simplifications, the radiation-induced segregation problem can be cast into a system of four coupled partial-differential equations, which can be solved numerically for appropriate initial and boundary conditions. Model calculations have been performed for ternary solid solutions intended to be representative of Fe-Cr-Ni and Ni-Al-Si alloys under various irradiation conditions. The dependence of segregation on both the alloy properties and the irradiation variables, e.g., temperature and displacement rate, was calculated. The sample calculations are in good qualitative agreement with the general trends of radiation-induced segregation observed experimentally

First principles analysis of hydrogen chemisorption on Pd-Re alloyed overlayers and alloyed surfaces

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Pallassana, Venkataraman; Neurock, Matthew; Hansen, Lars Bruno

2000-01-01

Gradient corrected periodic density functional theory (DFT-GGA) slab calculations were used to examine the chemisorption of atomic hydrogen on various Pd-Re alloyed overlayers and uniformly alloyed surfaces. Adsorption was examined at 33% surface coverage, where atomic hydrogen preferred the thre...

Electronic structure and properties of disordered alloys of d-elements

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Demidenko, V.S.; Kal'yanov, A.P.

1983-01-01

On the basis of coherent potential approximation the fundamental characteristics in which transition element alloys differ have been established. Connection of the characteristics with position of the elements alloyed in the Mendeleev table is considered. It is confirmed by calculations that electronic structure and, consequently, physical properties of the alloys of a certain value potential disturbing matrix, change qualitatively. Results of the calculation of electron energy state density, diagrams of partial and average magnetic momenta in binary and ternary alloys of the first transition period, are presented. Besides, calculation results of bond energy in d-metals and energy of segregation formation in their alloys are also given. Comparison with experiment confirms the efficiency of concepts given in the paper

Erratum: Spin dynamics in ferromagnets: Gilbert damping and two-magnon scattering

Czech Academy of Sciences Publication Activity Database

Zakeri, Kh.; Lindner, J.; Barsukov, I.; Meckenstock, R.; Farle, M.; von Horsten, U.; Wende, H.; Keune, W.; Rocker, J.; Kalarickal, S.S.; Lenz, K.; Kuch, W.; Baberschke, K.; Frait, Zdeněk

2009-01-01

Roč. 80, č. 5 (2009), 059901/1-059901/3 ISSN 1098-0121 Institutional research plan: CEZ:AV0Z10100520 Keywords : ferromagnetic resonance * Heusler alloys Subject RIV: BM - Solid Matter Physics ; Magnetism Impact factor: 3.475, year: 2009

Phase stability, magnetic, electronic, half-metallic and mechanical properties of a new equiatomic quaternary Heusler compound ZrRhTiIn: A first-principles investigation

Science.gov (United States)

Wang, Jia-Xing; Chen, Z. B.; Gao, Y. C.

2018-05-01

In this manuscript, we have studied the electronic, magnetic, half-metallic and mechanical properties of a new Zr-based equiatomic quaternary Heusler (EQH) compound, ZrRhTiIn using first-principles calculations. The generalized gradient approximation (GGA) calculation results imply that at its equilibrium lattice constant of 6.70 Å, ZrRhTiIn is a half-metallic material (HMM) with a considerable band gap (Ebg) of 0.530 eV and a spin-filter/half-metallic band-gap (EHM) of 0.080 eV in the minority-spin channel. For ZrRhTiIn, the formation energy of -2.738 eV and the cohesive energy of 21.38 eV indicate that it is a thermodynamically stable material according to theory. The minority-spin EHM arises from the hybridization among Zr-4d, Ti-3d and Rh-4d electrons. The calculated total magnetic moment of ZrRhTiIn is 2 μB, meeting the well-known Slater-Pauling rule Mt = Zt -18. Furthermore, uniform strain and tetragonal strain were applied in this work to examine the magneto-electronic and half-metallic behaviors of the ZrRhTiIn system. Finally, we show that ZrRhTiIn is mechanically stable, ductile and anisotropic.

Thermodynamic assessment and the composition prediction of amorphous alloy in the Fe–B–Er alloy system

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wang, S.L.; Han, J.J.; Wang, C.P.; Kou, S.Z.; Liu, X.J.

2012-01-01

Highlights: ► The thermodynamic parameters of each phase in the Fe–Er and B–Er binary systems were obtained. ► An agreement between the calculated results and experimental data was obtained in each binary system. ► The liquidus surface of Fe–B–Er system has been calculated by means of CALPHAD. ► The investigation of GFA in Fe-rich alloys in the context of Fe–B–Er liquidus surface proves the significance of calculated phase diagram in the composition design of Fe-based metallic glass. - Abstract: The phase diagrams and thermodynamic properties in the Fe–Er and B–Er binary systems have been assessed by using the CALPHAD (Calculation of Phase Diagrams) method on the basis of the experimental data including the thermodynamic properties and phase equilibria. The thermodynamic parameters of each phase in the Fe–Er and B–Er binary systems were obtained, and an agreement between the calculated results and experimental data was obtained in each binary system. The isothermal sections at different temperatures and liquidus surface in the Fe–B–Er system have been calculated based on the binary thermodynamic data assessed in the present work. In addition, by considering that the glass formation composition of amorphous alloy is closely relative to the eutectic point in corresponding phase diagram, the investigation of glass-forming ability (GFA) in Fe-rich alloys in the Fe–B–Er liquidus surface has also been implemented in this work. The experimental result indicates that the GFA of a certain alloy is intimately relative to its location in the phase diagram, which proves that the phase diagram is an efficient tool for the composition design of Fe-based amorphous alloy.

Ground state properties and thermoelectric behavior of Ru{sub 2}VZ (Z=Si, ge, sn) half-metallic ferromagnetic full-Heusler compounds

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Yalcin, Battal Gazi

2016-06-15

The ground state properties namely structural, mechanical, electronic and magnetic properties and thermoelectric behavior of Ru{sub 2}VZ (Z=Si, Ge and Sn) half-metallic ferromagnetic full-Heusler compounds are systematically investigated. These compounds are ferromagnetic and crystallize in the Heusler type L2{sub 1} structure (prototype: Cu{sub 2}MnAl, Fm-3m 225). This result is confirmed for Ru{sub 2}VSi and Ru{sub 2}VSn by experimental work reported by Yin and Nash using high temperature direct reaction calorimetry. The studied materials are half-metallic ferromagnets with a narrow direct band gap in the minority spin channel that amounts to 31 meV, 66 meV and 14 meV for Ru{sub 2}VSi, Ru{sub 2}VGe, and Ru{sub 2}VSn, respectively. The total spin magnetic moment (M{sub tot}) of the considered compounds satisfies a Slater–Pauling type rule for localized magnetic moment systems (M{sub tot}=(N{sub V}−24)µ{sub B}), where N{sub V}=25 is the number of valence electrons in the primitive cell. The Curie temperature within the random phase approximation (RPA) is found to be 23 K, 126 K and 447 K for Ru{sub 2}VSi, Ru{sub 2}VGe and Ru{sub 2}VSn, respectively. Semi-classical Boltzmann transport theories have been used to obtain thermoelectric constants, such as Seebeck coefficient (S), electrical (σ/τ) and thermal conductivity (κ/τ), power factor (PF) and the Pauli magnetic susceptibility (χ). ZT{sub MAX} values of 0.016 (350 K), 0.033 (380 K) and 0.063 (315 K) are achieved for Ru{sub 2}VSi, Ru{sub 2}VGe and Ru{sub 2}VSn, respectively. It is expected that the obtained results might be a trigger in future experimentally interest in this type of full-Heusler compounds. - Graphical abstract: Temperature dependence of figure of merit for Ru{sub 2}VZ (Z=Si, Ge, and Sn) compounds. - Highlights: • The ground state and thermoelectric properties are reported for the first time. • Ru{sub 2}VZ are found to be a half-metallic ferromagnetic full Heusler compound. • The

Magnetic susceptibility of Dirac fermions, Bi-Sb alloys, interacting Bloch fermions, dilute nonmagnetic alloys, and Kondo alloys

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Buot, Felix A., E-mail: fbuot@gmu.edu [Computational Materials Science Center, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA 22030 (United States); TCSE Center, Spintronics Group, Physics Department, University of San Carlos, Talamban, Cebu 6000 (Philippines); C& LB Research Institute, Carmen, Cebu 6005 (Philippines); Otadoy, Roland E.S.; Rivero, Karla B. [TCSE Center, Spintronics Group, Physics Department, University of San Carlos, Talamban, Cebu 6000 (Philippines)

2017-03-01

Wide ranging interest in Dirac Hamiltonian is due to the emergence of novel materials, namely, graphene, topological insulators and superconductors, the newly-discovered Weyl semimetals, and still actively-sought after Majorana fermions in real materials. We give a brief review of the relativistic Dirac quantum mechanics and its impact in the developments of modern physics. The quantum band dynamics of Dirac Hamiltonian is crucial in resolving the giant diamagnetism of bismuth and Bi-Sb alloys. Quantitative agreement of the theory with the experiments on Bi-Sb alloys has been achieved, and physically meaningful contributions to the diamagnetism has been identified. We also treat relativistic Dirac fermion as an interband dynamics in uniform magnetic fields. For the interacting Bloch electrons, the role of translation symmetry for calculating the magnetic susceptibility avoids any approximation to second order in the field. The expressions for magnetic susceptibility of dilute nonmagnetic alloys give a firm theoretical foundation of the empirical formulas used in fitting experimental results. The unified treatment of all the above calculations is based on the lattice Weyl-Wigner formulation of discrete phase-space quantum mechanics. For completeness, the magnetic susceptibility of Kondo alloys is also given since Dirac fermions in conduction band and magnetic impurities exhibit Kondo effect.

Molecular dynamics study of atomic displacements in disordered solid alloys

Science.gov (United States)

Puzyrev, Yevgeniy S.

The effects of atomic displacements on the energetics of alloys plays important role in the determining the properties of alloys. We studied the atomic displacements in disordered solid alloys using molecular dynamics and Monte-Carlo methods. The diffuse scattering of pure materials, copper, gold, nickel, and palladium was calculated. The experimental data for pure Cu was obtained from diffuse scattering intensity of synchrotron x-ray radiation. The comparison showed the advantages of molecular dynamics method for calculating the atomic displacements in solid alloys. The individual nearest neighbor separations were calculated for Cu 50Au50 alloy and compared to the result of XAFS experiment. The molecular dynamics method provided theoretical predictions of nearest neighbor pair separations in other binary alloys, Cu-Pd and Cu-Al for wide range of the concentrations. We also experimentally recovered the diffuse scattering maps for the Cu47.3Au52.7 and Cu85.2Al14.8 alloy.

NMR studies in the half-Heusler type compound YbPtSb

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Koyama, T; Abe, M; Mito, T; Ueda, K; Kohara, T [Graduate School of Material Science, University of Hyogo, Kamigori, Hyogo 678-1297 (Japan); Suzuki, H S, E-mail: t-koyama@sci.u-hyogo.ac.jp [National Institute for Materials Science, Tsukuba 305-0047 (Japan)

2011-01-01

{sup 121}Sb and {sup 19B}Pt nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) has been studied in the half-Heusler type compound YbPtSb to obtain information on local magnetic behavior. The characteristics of the localized 4f spins are observed in the Cuire-Weiss type behavior of the Knight shifts K for both {sup 121}Sb and {sup 19B}Pt. From the slope of K-{sub {chi}} plots we estimated hyperfine coupling constants of -3.8 and -4.6 kOe/{mu}{sub B} at Sb and Pt sites, respectively. It was found that the spin-echo decay rate 1/T{sub 2} of {sup 121}Sb shows a clear peaks at 10 K. Similar tendency was also observed in case of {sup 19B}Pt. However, static properties do not show any anomalies near 10 K.

Reducing thermal conductivity of binary alloys below the alloy limit via chemical ordering

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Duda, John C; English, Timothy S; Jordan, Donald A; Norris, Pamela M; Soffa, William A

2011-01-01

Substitutional solid solutions that exist in both ordered and disordered states will exhibit markedly different physical properties depending on their exact crystallographic configuration. Many random substitutional solid solutions (alloys) will display a tendency to order given the appropriate kinetic and thermodynamic conditions. Such order-disorder transitions will result in major crystallographic reconfigurations, where the atomic basis, symmetry, and periodicity of the alloy change dramatically. Consequently, the dominant scattering mechanism in ordered alloys will be different than that in disordered alloys. In this study, we present a hypothesis that ordered alloys can exhibit lower thermal conductivities than their disordered counterparts at elevated temperatures. To validate this hypothesis, we investigate the phononic transport properties of disordered and ordered AB Lennard-Jones alloys via non-equilibrium molecular dynamics and harmonic lattice dynamics calculations. It is shown that the thermal conductivity of an ordered alloy is the same as the thermal conductivity of the disordered alloy at ∼0.6T melt and lower than that of the disordered alloy above 0.8T melt .

The effect of main alloying elements on the physical properties of Al–Si foundry alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Stadler, F.; Antrekowitsch, H.; Fragner, W.; Kaufmann, H.; Pinatel, E.R.; Uggowitzer, P.J.

2013-01-01

In this study we describe the effect of the main alloying elements Si, Cu and Ni on the thermal properties of hypoeutectic and near-eutectic Al–Si foundry alloys. By means of systematic variations of the chemical composition, the influence of the amount of ‘second phases’ on the thermal conductivity, thermal expansion coefficient, and thermal shock resistance is evaluated. Thermodynamic calculations predicting the phase formation in multi-component Al–Si cast alloys were carried out and verified using SEM, EDX and XRD analysis. The experimentally obtained data are discussed on a systematic basis of thermodynamic calculations and compared to theoretical models for the thermal conductivity and thermal expansion of heterogeneous solids.

Heat capacities of several Co{sub 2}YZ Heusler compounds

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Yin, Ming, E-mail: myin1@hawk.iit.edu; Nash, Philip; Chen, Song

2013-12-20

Highlights: • Heat contents from 600 K to 1500 K of selected Co{sub 2}YZ were measured by drop calorimeters. • Heat capacities were obtained by taking derivatives of heats contents which were fitted with second order polynomial with respect to temperature. • Melting points determined by DSC were consistent with literature data. • Heats of fusion determined by DSC were comparable with those obtained by extrapolation of heat contents. - Abstract: Heat contents of several Co{sub 2}-based Heusler compounds Co{sub 2}YZ (Y = Fe, Mn, Ti; Z = Al, Ga, Si, Ge, Sn) were measured from 500 K to 1500 K using a Setaram MTHC 96 drop calorimeter. Second order polynomials were adopted to fit the data and heat capacities were obtained by taking the derivatives with respect to temperature. Melting points were determined by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and measured heats of fusion were compared with those obtained from extrapolation of heat contents.

Fabrication and thermoelectric properties of fine-grained TiNiSn compounds

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zou Minmin; Li Jingfeng; Du Bing; Liu Dawei; Kita, Takuji

2009-01-01

Nearly single-phased TiNiSn half-Heusler compound thermoelectric materials were synthesized by combining mechanical alloying (MA) and spark plasma sintering (SPS) in order to reduce its thermal conductivity by refining the grain sizes. Although TiNiSn compound powders were not synthesized directly via MA, dense bulk samples of TiNiSn compound were obtained by the subsequent SPS treatment. It was found that an excessive Ti addition relative to the TiNiSn stoichiometry is effective in increasing the phase purity of TiNiSn half-Heusler phase in the bulk samples, by compensating for the Ti loss caused by the oxidation of Ti powders and MA processing. The maximum power factor value obtained in the Ti-compensated sample is 1720 μW m -1 K -2 at 685 K. A relatively high ZT value of 0.32 is achieved at 785 K for the present undoped TiNiSn compound polycrystals. - Graphical abstract: Nearly single-phased TiNiSn-based half-Heusler compound polycrystalline materials with fine grains were fabricated by combining mechanical alloying (MA) and spark plasma sintering (SPS). A high ZT value for undoped TiNiSn was obtained because of the reduced thermal conductivity.

Electrical resistivity of liquid Ag-Au alloy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Anis Alam, M.; Tomak, M.

1983-01-01

Calculations of the dependence of the electrical resistivity in liquid Ag-Au binary alloy on composition are reported. The structure of the binary alloy is described as a hard-sphere system. A one-parameter local pseudopotential, which incorporates s-d hybridization effects phenomenologically, is employed in the resistivity calculation. A reasonable agreement with experimental trend is observed. (author)

First-principles calculations of impurity diffusion coefficients in dilute Mg alloys using the 8-frequency model

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ganeshan, S.; Hector, L.G.; Liu, Z.-K.

2011-01-01

Research highlights: → Implemented the eight frequency model for impurity diffusion in hexagonal metals. → Model inputs were energetics/vibrational properties from first princples. → Predicted diffusion coefficients for Al, Ca, Zn and Sn impurity diffusion in Mg. → Successful prediction of partial correlation factors and jump frequencies. → Good agreement between calculated and experimental results. - Abstract: Diffusion in dilute Mg-X alloys, where X denotes Al, Zn, Sn and Ca impurities, was investigated with first-principles density functional theory in the local density approximation. Impurity diffusion coefficients were computed as a function of temperature using the 8-frequency model which provided the relevant impurity and solvent (Mg) jump frequencies and correlation factors. Minimum energy pathways for impurity diffusion and associated saddle point structures were computed with the climbing image nudged elastic band method. Vibrational properties were obtained with the supercell (direct) method for lattice dynamics. Calculated diffusion coefficients were compared with available experimental data. For diffusion between basal planes, we find D Mg-Ca > D Mg-Zn > D Mg-Sn > D Mg-Al, where D is the diffusion coefficient. For diffusion within a basal plane, the same trend holds except that D Mg-Zn overlaps with D Mg-Al at high temperatures and D Mg-Sn at low temperatures. These trends were explored with charge density contours in selected planes of each Mg-X alloy, the variation of the activation energy for diffusion with the atomic radius of each impurity and the electronic density of states. The theoretical methodology developed herein can be applied to impurity diffusion in other hexagonal materials.

Surface tension modelling of liquid Cd-Sn-Zn alloys

Science.gov (United States)

Fima, Przemyslaw; Novakovic, Rada

2018-06-01

The thermodynamic model in conjunction with Butler equation and the geometric models were used for the surface tension calculation of Cd-Sn-Zn liquid alloys. Good agreement was found between the experimental data for limiting binaries and model calculations performed with Butler model. In the case of ternary alloys, the surface tension variation with Cd content is better reproduced in the case of alloys lying on vertical sections defined by high Sn to Zn molar fraction ratio. The calculated surface tension is in relatively good agreement with the available experimental data. In addition, the surface segregation of liquid ternary Cd-Sn-Zn and constituent binaries has also been calculated.

Generalized stacking fault energies of alloys.

Science.gov (United States)

Li, Wei; Lu, Song; Hu, Qing-Miao; Kwon, Se Kyun; Johansson, Börje; Vitos, Levente

2014-07-02

The generalized stacking fault energy (γ surface) provides fundamental physics for understanding the plastic deformation mechanisms. Using the ab initio exact muffin-tin orbitals method in combination with the coherent potential approximation, we calculate the γ surface for the disordered Cu-Al, Cu-Zn, Cu-Ga, Cu-Ni, Pd-Ag and Pd-Au alloys. Studying the effect of segregation of the solute to the stacking fault planes shows that only the local chemical composition affects the γ surface. The calculated alloying trends are discussed using the electronic band structure of the base and distorted alloys.Based on our γ surface results, we demonstrate that the previous revealed 'universal scaling law' between the intrinsic energy barriers (IEBs) is well obeyed in random solid solutions. This greatly simplifies the calculations of the twinning measure parameters or the critical twinning stress. Adopting two twinnability measure parameters derived from the IEBs, we find that in binary Cu alloys, Al, Zn and Ga increase the twinnability, while Ni decreases it. Aluminum and gallium yield similar effects on the twinnability.

Spin polarization of single-crystalline Co2MnSi films grown by PLD on GaAs(0 0 1)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wang, W.H.; Przybylski, M.; Kuch, W.; Chelaru, L.I.; Wang, J.; Lu, Y.F.; Barthel, J.; Kirschner, J.

2005-01-01

Single-crystalline Co 2 MnSi Heusler alloy films have been grown on GaAs(0 0 1) substrates by pulsed laser deposition. The best crystallographic quality has been achieved after deposition at 450 K. Spin-resolved photoemission measurements at BESSY reveal spin-resolved density of states that are in qualitative agreement with recent band structure calculations. The spin polarization of photoelectrons close to the Fermi level is found to be at most 12% at room temperature, in contrast to the predicted half-metallic behavior. We suggest that this discrepancy may be attributed to a non-magnetic surface region and/or partial chemical disorder in the Co 2 MnSi lattice

Magnetic tunneling junctions with the Heusler compound Co2Cr0.6Fe0.4Al

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Conca Parra, A.

2007-01-01

Materials with large spin polarization are required for applications in spintronics devices. For this reason, major research efforts are directed to study the properties of compounds which are expected to be half metals, i.e. materials with 100% spin polarization. Half metals are expected to have a gap in the density of states at the Fermi energy for one spin band while the other spin band is metallic leading to a completely spin polarized current. The ferromagnetic full Heusler alloy Co 2 Cr 0.6 Fe 0.4 Al (CCFA) has attracted great interest in the field of spintronics. The high Tc (800 K) and the expected half metallicity make CCFA a good candidate for applications in spintronic devices such as magnetic tunneling junctions (MTJs). This thesis presents the results of the study of the electronic and structural properties of CCFA thin films. The films were implemented in magnetic tunneling junctions and the tunneling magnetoresistance effect (TMR) was investigated. The main objectives were the measurement of the spin polarisation of the CCFA alloy and to obtain information about its electronic structure. The influence of the deposition conditions on the thin film properties and on the surface crystalline order and their respective influence on the TMR ratio was investigated. Epitaxial CCFA thin films with two alternative growth orientations were deposited on different substrates and buffer layers. An annealing step was used to improve the crystalline properties of the thin films. In the tunneling junctions, Al 2 O 3 was used as a barrier material and Co was chosen as counter electrode. The multilayer systems were patterned in Mesa structures using lithographic techniques. In the framework of the Julliere model, a maximum spin polarisation of 54% at 4K was measured in tunneling junctions with epitaxial CCFA electrodes. A strong influence of the annealing temperature on the TMR ratio was determined. The increase of the TMR ratio could be correlated to an improvement of

Transport properties of Josephson contacts with ferromagnetic tunnel barriers; Transporteigenschaften von Josephson-Kontakten mit ferromagnetischer Tunnelbarriere

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Sprungmann, Dirk

2010-01-28

The combination of the Josephson and the proximity effect is possible by the introduction of a ferromagnetic barrier into a Josephson contact resulting in a so called π coupling. The supra current through these contacts is flowing in the reverse direction. Specific new electronic circuits such as phase shifting devices are possible, for instance for high-speed analog-digital transducers. In the frame of this thesis SIFS Josephson contacts were studied, with a barrier consisting of a thin insulating Al2Ox barrier layer and a ferromagnetic thin film. For the ferromagnetic material weak ferromagnetic Ni(0.6)Cu(0.4), the strong ferromagnetic Fe(0.25)Co(0.75) and the ternary Heusler alloys Co2MnSn and Cu2MnAl were used. Josephson contacts with π coupling were realized with the NiCu alloy, triplet superconductivity seems to appear with the Heusler systems.

ATA and the electron phonon coupling constant in calculating TA of super conducting alloys [Paper No. : V-2

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Chatterjee, P.; Chatterjee, S.

1978-01-01

The theoretical formula of McMillan has been very successful in explaining the superconducting transition temperature. In this theory the electron-phonon coupling constant was very difficult to calculate from a purely theoretical stand point until Gyorffy and Gaspari gave a theoretical formulation from the multiple scattering point of view. This theory has been very successful in explaining Tsub(c) of many superconducting elements and compounds. For the disordered solid, such as substitution alloys, this theory fails because of the breakdown of the translational symmetry used in the multiple scattering theory of Gyorffy and Gaspari. This problem can however be solved if we average the Green's function in random phase approximation (ATA). In this work we have reformulated Gyorffy and Gaspari's expression of the electron phonon coupling constant in the random phase approximation. This theory has been utilised to alloys of Nb and Mo with different concentrations. The agreement between theory and experiment appears to be very good. (author)

Surface energy of metal alloy nanoparticles

Science.gov (United States)

Takrori, Fahed M.; Ayyad, Ahmed

2017-04-01

The measurement of surface energy of alloy nanoparticles experimentally is still a challenge therefore theoretical work is necessary to estimate its value. In continuation of our previous work on the calculation of the surface energy of pure metallic nanoparticles we have extended our work to calculate the surface energy of different alloy systems, namely, Co-Ni, Au-Cu, Cu-Al, Cu-Mg and Mo-Cs binary alloys. It is shown that the surface energy of metallic binary alloy decreases with decreasing particle size approaching relatively small values at small sizes. When both metals in the alloy obey the Hume-Rothery rules, the difference in the surface energy is small at the macroscopic as well as in the nano-scale. However when the alloy deviated from these rules the difference in surface energy is large in the macroscopic and in the nano scales. Interestingly when solid solution formation is not possible at the macroscopic scale according to the Hume-Rothery rules, it is shown it may form at the nano-scale. To our knowledge these findings here are presented for the first time and is challenging from fundamental as well as technological point of views.

Structure of disordered alloys - II: self-consistent CCPA calculations for III-V semiconducting alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mookerjee, A.; Chaudhry, V.

1980-09-01

Using the chemical pseudopotential approach of Anderson and Bullett we have generated from first principles pseudo-Hamiltonians for heteropolar alloys. The one-electron density of states has been generated for Gasub(x)Insub(1-x)As using a self-consistent cluster CPA introduced earlier by one of us. Off-diagonal disorder has also been incorporated. (author)

Theory of Rare-Earth Alloys

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Lindgård, Per-Anker

1977-01-01

A mean-field random alloy theory combined with a simple calculation of the exchange interaction J(c,Q) is shown to quantitatively account for the phase diagrams for alloys of rare-earth metals with Y, Lu, Sc, and other rare-earth metals. A concentration-dependent J(c,Q) explains the empirical 2...

Peculiarities of thermoelectric half-Heusler phase formation in Zr–Co–Sb ternary system

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Romaka, V.V., E-mail: romakav@lp.edu.ua [Department of Applied Material Science and Materials Engineering, Lviv Polytechnic National University, Ustyyanovycha Str. 5, 79013 Lviv (Ukraine); Institut für Physikalische Chemie, Universität Wien, Währingerstr. 42, A-1090 Wien (Austria); Romaka, L. [Inorganic Chemistry Department, Ivan Franko Lviv National University, Kyryla and Mefodiya Str. 6, 79005 Lviv (Ukraine); Rogl, P. [Institut für Physikalische Chemie, Universität Wien, Währingerstr. 42, A-1090 Wien (Austria); Stadnyk, Yu. [Inorganic Chemistry Department, Ivan Franko Lviv National University, Kyryla and Mefodiya Str. 6, 79005 Lviv (Ukraine); Melnychenko, N. [Inorganic Chemistry Department, Ivan Franko Lviv National University, Kyryla and Mefodiya Str. 6, 79005 Lviv (Ukraine); Army Academy named after Hetman Petro Sahaydachnyi, Gvardijska Str. 32, 79012 Lviv (Ukraine); Korzh, R.; Duriagina, Z. [Department of Applied Material Science and Materials Engineering, Lviv Polytechnic National University, Ustyyanovycha Str. 5, 79013 Lviv (Ukraine); Horyn, A. [Inorganic Chemistry Department, Ivan Franko Lviv National University, Kyryla and Mefodiya Str. 6, 79005 Lviv (Ukraine)

2014-02-05

Highlights: • Phase relations for the Zr–Co–Sb system at 500 °C. • Homogeneity region for half-Heusler phase. • The distribution of DOS for Zr{sub 1+x}Co{sub 1−x}Sb predicts transition from semiconductor (x = 0) to metallic (x = 0.13) like behavior. • The existence of the solid solution Zr{sub 5}Co{sub x}Sb{sub 3+y} (x = 0.0–1.0, y = 0.0–1.0). -- Abstract: The phase equilibria in the Zr–Co–Sb ternary system were studied at 873 K by means of X-ray and metallographic analyses in the whole concentration range. The interaction between the elements results the formation of four ternary compounds at investigated temperature: ZrCoSb (MgAgAs-type), Zr{sub 6}CoSb{sub 2} (K{sub 2}UF{sub 6}-type), Zr{sub 5}CoSb{sub 3} (Hf{sub 5}CuSn{sub 3}-type) and Zr{sub 5}Co{sub 0.5}Sb{sub 2.5} (W{sub 5}Si{sub 3}-type). The limited composition Zr{sub 5}CoSb{sub 3} of the solid solution based on the Zr{sub 5}Sb{sub 3−4} binaries is considered as compound with Hf{sub 5}CuSn{sub 3} structure type. The influence of the disordering and defects in the crystal structure of ZrCoSb on the physical properties was analyzed. The performed electronic structure calculations are in good agreement with electrical and magnetic studies.

Development of half metallicity within mixed magnetic phase of Cu1‑x Co x MnSb alloy

Science.gov (United States)

Bandyopadhyay, Abhisek; Neogi, Swarup Kumar; Paul, Atanu; Meneghini, Carlo; Bandyopadhyay, Sudipta; Dasgupta, Indra; Ray, Sugata

2018-05-01

Cubic half-Heusler Cu1‑x Co x MnSb () compounds have been investigated both experimentally and theoretically for their magnetic, transport and electronic properties in search of possible half metallic antiferromagnetism. The systems (Cu,Co)MnSb are of particular interest as the end member alloys CuMnSb and CoMnSb are semi metallic (SM) antiferromagnetic (AFM) and half metallic (HM) ferromagnetic (FM), respectively. Clearly, Co-doping at the Cu-site of CuMnSb introduces changes in the carrier concentration at the Fermi level that may lead to half metallic ground state but there remains a persistent controversy whether the AFM to FM transition occurs simultaneously. Our experimental results reveal that the AFM to FM magnetic transition occurs through a percolation mechanism where Co-substitution gradually suppresses the AFM phase and forces FM polarization around every dopant cobalt. As a result a mixed magnetic phase is realized within this composition range while a nearly HM band structure is developed already at the 10% Co-doping. Absence of T 2 dependence in the resistivity variation at low T-region serves as an indirect proof of opening up an energy gap at the Fermi surface in one of the spin channels. This is further corroborated by the ab initio electronic structure calculations that suggests that a nearly ferromagnetic half-metallic ground state is stabilized by Sb-p holes produced upon Co doping.

Standard enthalpies of formation of selected Rh{sub 2}YZ Heusler compounds

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Yin, Ming, E-mail: myin1@hawk.iit.edu; Nash, Philip

2015-11-25

The standard enthalpies of formation (Δ{sub f}H°) of selected ternary Rh-based Rh{sub 2}YZ (Y = Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Ru, Ti, V; Z = Al, Ga, In, Si, Ge, Sn) compounds were measured using high temperature direct reaction calorimetry. The measured standard enthalpies of formation (in kJ/mol of atoms) are, for the Heusler compound Rh{sub 2}MnSn (−40.1 ± 3.6), for the B2-structured compounds: Rh{sub 2}FeAl (−48.5 ± 2.9); Rh{sub 2}MnAl (−72.4 ± 2.7); Rh{sub 2}MnGa (−55.3 ± 2.0); Rh{sub 2}MnIn (−35.3 ± 1.9), for the tetragonal compounds: Rh{sub 2}FeSn (−28.9 ± 1.3); Rh{sub 2}TiAl (−97.6 ± 2.2); Rh{sub 2}TiGa (−79.0 ± 1.8); Rh{sub 2}TiSn (−74.7 ± 3.1). Values are compared with those from first principles calculations in published papers and the Open Quantum Materials Database (OQMD). Lattice parameters of these compounds are determined using X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD). Microstructures were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS). - Highlights: • Standard enthalpies of formation of Rh{sub 2}YZ were measured using a drop calorimeter. • Measured enthalpies agree with first principles data in general. • Lattice parameters and related phase relationships were consistent with literature data. • Rh{sub 2}TiSn of tI8 structure were reported for the first time.

Electrical resistivity of liquid noble metal alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Anis Alam, M.; Tomak, M.

1983-08-01

Calculations of the dependence of the electrical resistivity in liquid Ag-Au, Cu-Ag, Cu-Au binary alloys on composition are reported. The structure of the binary alloy is described as a hard sphere system. A one-parameter local pseudopotential, which incorporates s-d hybridization effects phenomenologically, is employed in the resistivity calculation. A reasonable agreement with experimental trends is observed in cases where experimental information is available. (author)

Multiscale simulation of mechanical properties of TiNb alloy

Science.gov (United States)

Nikonov, A. Yu.

2017-12-01

The article presents a numerical simulation of the mechanical properties of a Ti-Nb β-alloy on three different scales. The ab-initio approach is used to estimate the concentrations of the Ti alloy with required elastic properties. On the basis of molecular dynamics simulation, we calculate the adhesive force between individual particles of the alloy. The calculated dependence is implemented within the movable cellular automata method to determine the mechanical properties of Ti-Nb depending on the interparticle free space.

Spin-polarized electron gas in Co2MSi/SrTiO3(M= Ti, V, Cr, Mn, and Fe) heterostructures

KAUST Repository

Nazir, S.; Schwingenschlö gl, Udo

2016-01-01

Spin-polarized density functional theory is used to study the TiO2 terminated interfaces between the magnetic Heusler alloys Co2Si (M = Ti, V, Cr, Mn, and Fe) and the non-polar band insulator SrTiO3. The structural relaxation at the interface turns

Peculiar magnetic properties of Er conditioned Ni.sub.43./sub.Co.sub.7./sub.Mn.sub.31./sub.Ga.sub.19./sub. at ambientand hydrostatic pressures

Czech Academy of Sciences Publication Activity Database

Kaštil, J.; Kamarád, Jiří; Knížek, Karel; Arnold, Zdeněk; Javorský, P.

2013-01-01

Roč. 565, JUL (2013), s. 134-138 ISSN 0925-8388 R&D Projects: GA ČR GAP204/12/0692 Institutional support: RVO:68378271 Keywords : Heusler alloys * hydrostatic pressure * magnetism Subject RIV: BE - Theoretical Physics Impact factor: 2.726, year: 2013 www.elsevier.com/locate/jalcom

Density and Structure Analysis of Molten Ni-W Alloys

Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)

Feng XIAO; Liang FANG

2004-01-01

Density of molten Ni and Ni-W alloys was measured in the temperature range of 1773～1873 K with a sessile drop method.The density of molten Ni and Ni-W alloys trends to decrease with increasing temperature. The density and molar volume of the alloys trend to increase with increasing W concentration in the alloys. The calculation result shows an ideal mixing of Ni-W alloys.

Study of the embedded atom method of atomistic calculations for metals and alloys: Progress report, March 1, 1987-February 28, 1988

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Johnson, R.A.

1987-11-01

The relationships between the physical input and output of the Embedded Atom Method (EAM) used in atomistic calculations for metals and alloys and the model functions and parameters are being investigated. An analytic fcc EAM model has been derived based on short range approximations to the input functions in EAM and has been studied both analytically and numerically for the fcc lattice. This model has been extended to longer ranges and applied to both fcc and hcp metals. The correspondence between models based on density functional theory (EAM), tight binding methods, and effective medium theory has been reported. The reasons for difficulty in applying EAM to bcc metals is under study and a new form of alloy potential which retains general properties of pure metal potentials has been developed. 8 refs

Effect of Al alloying on the martensitic temperature in Ti-Ta shape memory alloys

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ferrari, Alberto; Rogal, Jutta; Drautz, Ralf [Interdisciplinary Centre for Advanced Materials Simulation, Ruhr-Universitaet Bochum (Germany)

2017-07-01

Ti-Ta-based alloys are promising candidates as high temperature shape memory alloys (HTSMAs) for actuators and superelastic applications. The shape memory mechanism involves a martensitic transformation between the low-temperature α'' phase (orthorhombic) and the high-temperature β phase (body-centered cubic). In order to prevent the degradation of the shape memory effect, Ti-Ta needs to be alloyed with further elements. However, this often reduces the martensitic temperature M{sub s}, which is usually strongly composition dependent. The aim of this work is to analyze how the addition of a third element to Ti-Ta alloys affects M{sub s} by means of electronic structure calculations. In particular, it will be investigated how alloying Al to Ti-Ta alters the relative stability of the α'' and β phases. This understanding will help to identify new alloy compositions featuring both a stable shape memory effect and elevated transformation temperatures.

Giant magnetocaloric effect from reverse martensitic transformation in Ni–Mn–Ga–Cu ferromagnetic shape memory alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sarkar, Sudip Kumar; Sarita; Babu, P.D.; Biswas, Aniruddha; Siruguri, Vasudeva; Krishnan, Madangopal

2016-01-01

In an effort to produce Giant Magnetocaloric effect (GMCE) near room temperature, in a first ever such study, the austenite transformation temperature (A_s) was fine tuned to ferromagnetic Curie temperature (T_C) in Ferromagnetic Shape Memory Alloys (FSMA) and a large GMCE of ΔSM = −81.8 J/Kg-K was achieved in Ni_5_0Mn_1_8_._5Cu_6_._5Ga_2_5 alloy during reverse martensitic transformation (heating cycle) for a magnetic field change of 9 T at 303 K. Fine tuning of A_s with T_C was achieved by Cu substitution in Ni_5_0Mn_2_5_−_xCu_xGa_2_5 (0 ≤ x ≤ 7.0)-based FSMAs. Characterizations of these alloys were carried out using Optical and Scanning Electron Microscopy, X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and DC magnetization measurements. Addition of Cu to stoichiometric Heusler type Ni_2MnGa increases the martensitic transformation temperatures and decreases T_C. Concurrently, ΔSM increases with Cu addition and peaks at 6.5 at% Cu for which there is a virtual overlap between T_C and A_s. Maximum Refrigerant Capacity (RCP) of 327.0 J/Kg was also achieved in the heating cycle for 9 T field change at 303 K. Corresponding values for the cooling cycle measurements (measured during forward transformation) were 30.4 J/Kg-K and 123.5 J/Kg respectively for the same 6.5 at% Cu sample under the same thermo-magnetic conditions. - Highlights: • A_s was fine tuned to T_C in Cu substituted Ni_5_0Mn_2_5_−_xCu_xGa_2_5 (0 ≤ x ≤ 7.0) alloys. • MT temperature increases with Cu addition while T_C decreases. • A virtual overlapping of A_s with T_C was found in Ni_5_0Mn_1_8_._5Cu_6_._5Ga_2_5 alloys. • ΔSM = −81.8 J/Kg-K achieved from reverse MT for Δ(μ_0H) = 9 T at 303 K. • A highest RCP value of 94.6 J/Kg was observed for Δ(μ_0H) = 5 T in Cu:6.5 alloys.

Numerical simulation of freckle formation in directional solidification of binary alloys

Science.gov (United States)

Felicelli, Sergio D.; Heinrich, Juan C.; Poirier, David R.

1992-01-01

A mathematical model of solidification is presented which simulates the formation of segregation models known as 'freckles' during directional solidification of binary alloys. The growth of the two-phase or dendritic zone is calculated by solving the coupled equations of momentum, energy, and solute transport, as well as maintaining the thermodynamic constraints dictated by the phase diagram of the alloy. Calculations for lead-tin alloys show that the thermosolutal convection in the dendritic zone during solidification can produce heavily localized inhomogeneities in the composition of the final alloy.

Electronic structure and phase equilibria in ternary substitutional alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Traiber, A.J.S.; Allen, S.M.; Waterstrat, R.M.

1996-01-01

A reliable, consistent scheme to study phase equilibria in ternary substitutional alloys based on the tight-binding approximation is presented. With electronic parameters from linear muffin-tin orbital calculations, the computed density of states and band structures compare well with those from more accurate abinitio calculations. Disordered alloys are studied within the tight-binding coherent-potential approximation extended to alloys; energetics of ordered systems are obtained through effective pair interactions computed with the general perturbation method; and partially ordered alloys are studied with a novel simplification of the molecular coherent-potential approximation combined with the general perturbation method. The formalism is applied to bcc-based Zr-Ru-Pd alloys which are promising candidates for medical implant devices. Using energetics obtained from the above scheme, we apply the cluster- variation method to study phase equilibria for particular pseudo- binary alloys and show that results are consistent with observed behavior of electronic specific heat coefficient with composition for Zr 0.5 (Ru, Pd) 0.5

Bulletin of Materials Science | News

Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

Home; Journals; Bulletin of Materials Science; Volume 25; Issue 4 ... were synthesized by self-propagating high temperature synthesis (SHS) method. ... Structure determination at room temperature and phase transition studies above T c in .... Hyperfine field distributions in disordered Mn2CoSn and Mn2NiSn Heusler alloys.

Fully Ab-Initio Determination of the Thermoelectric Properties of Half-Heusler NiTiSn: Crucial Role of Interstitial Ni Defects.

Science.gov (United States)

Berche, Alexandre; Jund, Philippe

2018-05-23

For thermoelectric applications, ab initio methods generally fail to predict the transport properties of the materials because of their inability to predict properly the carrier concentrations that control the electronic properties. In this work, a methodology to fill in this gap is applied on the NiTiSn half Heusler phase. For that, we show that the main defects act as donor of electrons and are responsible of the electronic properties of the material. Indeed, the presence of Ni i interstitial defects explains the experimental valence band spectrum and its associated band gap reported in the literature. Moreover, combining the DOS of the solid solutions with the determination of the energy of formation of charged defects, we show that Ni i defects are also responsible of the measured carrier concentration in experimentally supposed "pure" NiTiSn compounds. Subsequently the thermoelectric properties of NiTiSn can be calculated using a fully ab initio description and an overall correct agreement with experiments is obtained. This methodology can be extended to predict the result of extrinsic doping and thus to select the most efficient dopant for specific thermoelectric applications.

The effect of small 4th element alloying additions on the calculated phase stability in the Fe-Cr-Ni system

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Watkin, J.S.

1979-01-01

Recent studies into the void swelling of Fe-Cr-Ni alloys have revealed that the magnitude of swelling depends upon alloy constitution and this together with the fact that minor element additions also play a major role in swelling necessitate a detailed knowledge of the influence of small 4th element additions on phase stability. In this paper the effects of additions of Nb, Ti, Al, Mo, Co and C to the Fe-Cr-Ni ternary are assessed by calculation. They confirm the ferritising tendencies of Nb, Ti and Al and the strong austenitising effect of C. Confirmation is also found for the scaling factors in the equivalent Ni and Cr equations in common usage and the paper presents Fe-Cr-Ni ternary sections at 400, 550 and 700 0 C modified for 1 at.% addition of each of the above elements. (orig.) [de

Microstructures of erbium modified aluminum-copper alloys

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Berghof-Hasselbaecher, Ellen; Schmidt, Gerald; Galetz, Mathias; Schuetze, Michael [DECHEMA-Forschungsinstitut, Frankfurt am Main (Germany); Masset, Patrick J. [Fraunhofer UMSICHT-ATZ Entwicklungszentrum, Sulzbach-Rosenberg (Germany); Zhang, Ligang [Technische Univ. Bergakademie Freiberg (Germany). ZIK Virtuhcon; Liu, Libin; Jin, Zhanpeng [Central South Univ., Changsha, Hunan (China)

2012-07-01

Alloying with rare earth metals improves to the mechanical properties and corrosion resistance of aluminium base alloys at high temperatures. The rare earth metal erbium may be used for grain refinement. Within a project of computer-aided alloy development based on the CALPHAD (CALculation of PHAse Diagrams) method various alloys were melted on the Al-rich side of the ternary system Al-Cu-Er under argon atmosphere and their microstructures were characterized in the as-cast state or after long-term isothermal annealing (400 C/960 h) by means of different investigation techniques. As a result, the phases fcc (Al), {tau}{sub 1}-Al{sub 8}Cu{sub 4}Er, {theta}-CuAl{sub 2}, {eta}-CuAl, and Al{sub 3}Er were identified, their compositions and fractions were quantified, and their hardnesses were determined. The experimental obtained microstructures agree very well with the calculated solidification behaviors of the cast alloys. The knowledge gained from this work about the phase compositions and microstructures can also be utilized for the fine optimization of the phase diagram. (orig.)

Stability and mobility of Cu-vacancy clusters in Fe-Cu alloys: A computational study based on the use of artificial neural networks for energy barrier calculations

Science.gov (United States)

Pascuet, M. I.; Castin, N.; Becquart, C. S.; Malerba, L.

2011-05-01

An atomistic kinetic Monte Carlo (AKMC) method has been applied to study the stability and mobility of copper-vacancy clusters in Fe. This information, which cannot be obtained directly from experimental measurements, is needed to parameterise models describing the nanostructure evolution under irradiation of Fe alloys (e.g. model alloys for reactor pressure vessel steels). The physical reliability of the AKMC method has been improved by employing artificial intelligence techniques for the regression of the activation energies required by the model as input. These energies are calculated allowing for the effects of local chemistry and relaxation, using an interatomic potential fitted to reproduce them as accurately as possible and the nudged-elastic-band method. The model validation was based on comparison with available ab initio calculations for verification of the used cohesive model, as well as with other models and theories.

Stability and mobility of Cu-vacancy clusters in Fe-Cu alloys: A computational study based on the use of artificial neural networks for energy barrier calculations

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pascuet, M.I.; Castin, N.; Becquart, C.S.; Malerba, L.

2011-01-01

An atomistic kinetic Monte Carlo (AKMC) method has been applied to study the stability and mobility of copper-vacancy clusters in Fe. This information, which cannot be obtained directly from experimental measurements, is needed to parameterise models describing the nanostructure evolution under irradiation of Fe alloys (e.g. model alloys for reactor pressure vessel steels). The physical reliability of the AKMC method has been improved by employing artificial intelligence techniques for the regression of the activation energies required by the model as input. These energies are calculated allowing for the effects of local chemistry and relaxation, using an interatomic potential fitted to reproduce them as accurately as possible and the nudged-elastic-band method. The model validation was based on comparison with available ab initio calculations for verification of the used cohesive model, as well as with other models and theories.

Lattice constant changes leading to significant changes of the spin-gapless features and physical nature in a inverse Heusler compound Zr2MnGa

Science.gov (United States)

Wang, Xiaotian; Cheng, Zhenxiang; Khenata, Rabah; Wu, Yang; Wang, Liying; Liu, Guodong

2017-12-01

The spin-gapless semiconductors with parabolic energy dispersions [1-3] have been recently proposed as a new class of materials for potential applications in spintronic devices. In this work, according to the Slater-Pauling rule, we report the fully-compensated ferrimagnetic (FCF) behavior and spin-gapless semiconducting (SGS) properties for a new inverse Heusler compound Zr2MnGa by means of the plane-wave pseudo-potential method based on density functional theory. With the help of GGA-PBE, the electronic structures and the magnetism of Zr2MnGa compound at its equilibrium and strained lattice constants are systematically studied. The calculated results show that the Zr2MnGa is a new SGS at its equilibrium lattice constant: there is an energy gap between the conduction and valence bands for both the majority and minority electrons, while there is no gap between the majority electrons in the valence band and the minority electrons in the conduction band. Remarkably, not only a diverse physical nature transition, but also different types of spin-gapless features can be observed with the change of the lattice constants. Our calculated results of Zr2MnGa compound indicate that this material has great application potential in spintronic devices.

Stability of Cd_1_–_xZn_xO_yS_1_–_y Quaternary Alloys Assessed with First-Principles Calculations

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Varley, Joel B.; He, Xiaoqing; Rockett, Angus; Lordi, Vincenzo

2017-01-01

One route to decreasing the absorption in CdS buffer layers in Cu(In,Ga)Se_2 and Cu_2ZnSn(S,Se)_4 thin-film photovoltaics is by alloying. Here we use first-principles calculations based on hybrid functionals to assess the energetics and stability of quaternary Cd, Zn, O, and S (Cd_1_–_xZn_xO_yS_1_–_y) alloys within a regular solution model. Our results identify that full miscibility of most Cd_1_–_xZn_xO_yS_1_–_y compositions and even binaries like Zn(O,S) is outside typical photovoltaic processing conditions. Finally, the results suggest that the tendency for phase separation of the oxysulfides may drive the nucleation of other phases such as sulfates that have been increasingly observed in oxygenated CdS and ZnS.

Enthalpies of a binary alloy during solidification

Science.gov (United States)

Poirier, D. R.; Nandapurkar, P.

1988-01-01

The purpose of the paper is to present a method of calculating the enthalpy of a dendritic alloy during solidification. The enthalpies of the dendritic solid and interdendritic liquid of alloys of the Pb-Sn system are evaluated, but the method could be applied to other binaries, as well. The enthalpies are consistent with a recent evaluation of the thermodynamics of Pb-Sn alloys and with the redistribution of solute in the same during dendritic solidification. Because of the heat of mixing in Pb-Sn alloys, the interdendritic liquid of hypoeutectic alloys (Pb-rich) of less than 50 wt pct Sn has enthalpies that increase as temperature decreases during solidification.

Coupled Simulation of Thermomagnetic Energy Generation Based on NiMnGa Heusler Alloy Films

Science.gov (United States)

Kohl, Manfred; Gueltig, Marcel; Wendler, Frank

2018-03-01

This paper presents a simulation model for the coupled dynamic properties of thermomagnetic generators based on magnetic shape memory alloy (MSMA) films. MSMA thermomagnetic generators exploit the large abrupt temperature-induced change of magnetization at the first- or second-order magnetic transition as well as the short heat transfer times due to the large surface-to-volume ratio of films. These properties allow for resonant self-actuation of freely movable MSMA cantilever devices showing thermomagnetic duty cycles in the order of 10 ms duration, which matches with the period of oscillatory motion. We present a numerical analysis of the energy conversion processes to understand the effect of design parameters on efficiency and power output. A lumped element model is chosen to describe the time dependence of MSMA cantilever deflection and of temperature profiles as well as the magnitude and phase dependency of magnetization change. The simulation model quantitatively describes experimentally observed oscillatory motion and resulting power output in the order of 100 mW cm-3. Furthermore, it predicts a power output of 490 mW cm-3 for advanced film materials with temperature-dependent change of magnetization Δ M/Δ T of 4 A m2 (kg K)-1, which challenges state-of-the-art thermoelectric devices.

First-principles calculation on the thermodynamic and elastic properties of precipitations in Al-Cu alloys

Science.gov (United States)

Sun, Dongqiang; Wang, Yongxin; Zhang, Xinyi; Zhang, Minyu; Niu, Yanfei

2016-12-01

First-principles calculations based on density functional theory was used to investigate the structural, thermodynamic and elastic properties of precipitations, θ″, θ‧ and θ, in Al-Cu alloys. The values of lattice constants accord with experimental results well. The structural stability of θ is the best, followed by θ‧ and θ″. In addition, due to the highest bulk modulus, shear modulus and Young's modulus, θ possesses the best reinforcement effect in precipitation hardening process considered only from mechanical properties of perfect crystal. According to the values of B/G, Poisson's ratio and C11-C12, θ‧ has the worst ductility, while θ″ has the best ductility, the ductility of θ is in the middle. The ideal tensile strength of θ″, θ‧ and θ calculated along [100] and [001] directions are 20.87 GPa, 23.11 GPa and 24.70 GPa respectively. The analysis of electronic structure suggests that three precipitations all exhibit metallic character, and number of bonding electrons and bonding strength are the nature of different thermodynamic and elastic properties for θ″, θ‧ and θ.

First-principle investigations of the magnetic properties and possible martensitic transformation in Ni2MnX (X=Al, Ga, In, Si, Ge and Sn)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wang, Wei; Gao, She-Sheng; Meng, Yang

2014-01-01

The magnetic and electronic properties of Ni 2 MnX (X=Al, Ga, In, Si, Ge and Sn) Heusler alloys have been studied by using the first-principle projector augmented wave potential within the generalized gradient approximation. The possible non-modulated martensitic transformation in these six alloys has been investigated. Both austenitic and martensitic Ni 2 MnX (X=Al, Ga, In, Si, Ge and Sn) Heusler alloys are found to be ferromagnets. In martensitic phase, the energies minimum occurs at c/a=0.99 for Ni 2 MnX (X=Al, In, Ge and Sn), and the energy minimum occurs at c/a=1.02 for Ni 2 MnSi. But there is a negligible energy difference ΔE (<6 meV/cell) between the austenitic and martensitic phases for each alloy. Meanwhile, around c/a=1, an anomaly is observed in the E-c/a curve, which is related to a very slightly tetragonal distortion trend in Ni 2 MnX (X=Al, In, Si, Ge and Sn). The energy difference ΔE between the austenitic and martensitic phases for Ni 2 MnGa is as large as 99 meV/cell, so it is more likely to realize martensitic transformation in it. - Highlights: • Both austenitic and martensitic Ni 2 MnX alloys are found to be ferromagnets. • The energy difference between the martensitic and austenitic phases is negligible. • The total moment in martensitic phase is close to corresponding to austenitic phase

Theoretical Studies of Hydrogen Storage Alloys.

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Jonsson, Hannes

2012-03-22

Theoretical calculations were carried out to search for lightweight alloys that can be used to reversibly store hydrogen in mobile applications, such as automobiles. Our primary focus was on magnesium based alloys. While MgH{sub 2} is in many respects a promising hydrogen storage material, there are two serious problems which need to be solved in order to make it useful: (i) the binding energy of the hydrogen atoms in the hydride is too large, causing the release temperature to be too high, and (ii) the diffusion of hydrogen through the hydride is so slow that loading of hydrogen into the metal takes much too long. In the first year of the project, we found that the addition of ca. 15% of aluminum decreases the binding energy to the hydrogen to the target value of 0.25 eV which corresponds to release of 1 bar hydrogen gas at 100 degrees C. Also, the addition of ca. 15% of transition metal atoms, such as Ti or V, reduces the formation energy of interstitial H-atoms making the diffusion of H-atoms through the hydride more than ten orders of magnitude faster at room temperature. In the second year of the project, several calculations of alloys of magnesium with various other transition metals were carried out and systematic trends in stability, hydrogen binding energy and diffusivity established. Some calculations of ternary alloys and their hydrides were also carried out, for example of Mg{sub 6}AlTiH{sub 16}. It was found that the binding energy reduction due to the addition of aluminum and increased diffusivity due to the addition of a transition metal are both effective at the same time. This material would in principle work well for hydrogen storage but it is, unfortunately, unstable with respect to phase separation. A search was made for a ternary alloy of this type where both the alloy and the corresponding hydride are stable. Promising results were obtained by including Zn in the alloy.

First-principles study on the effect of alloying elements on the elastic deformation response in β-titanium alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gouda, Mohammed K.; Gepreel, Mohamed A. H.; Nakamura, Koichi

2015-01-01

Theoretical deformation response of hypothetical β-titanium alloys was investigated using first-principles calculation technique under periodic boundary conditions. Simulation was carried out on hypothetical 54-atom supercell of Ti–X (X = Cr, Mn, Fe, Zr, Nb, Mo, Al, and Sn) binary alloys. The results showed that the strength of Ti increases by alloying, except for Cr. The most effective alloying elements are Nb, Zr, and Mo in the current simulation. The mechanism of bond breaking was revealed by studying the local structure around the alloying element atom with respect to volume change. Moreover, the effect of alloying elements on bulk modulus and admissible strain was investigated. It was found that Zr, Nb, and Mo have a significant effect to enhance the admissible strain of Ti without change in bulk modulus

Diffusion coefficients of alloying elements in dilute Mg alloys: A comprehensive first-principles study

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zhou, Bi-Cheng; Shang, Shun-Li; Wang, Yi; Liu, Zi-Kui

2016-01-01

First-principles calculations based on density functional theory have been used to calculate the temperature-dependent dilute tracer diffusion coefficients for 47 substitutional alloying elements in hexagonal closed packed (hcp) Mg by combining transition state theory and an 8-frequency model. The minimum energy pathways and the saddle point configurations during solute migration are calculated with the climbing image nudged elastic band method. Vibrational properties are obtained using the quasi-harmonic Debye model with inputs from first-principles calculations. An improved generalized gradient approximation of PBEsol is used in the present first-principles calculations, which is able to well describe both vacancy formation energies and vibrational properties. It is found that the solute diffusion coefficients in hcp Mg are roughly inversely proportional to the bulk modulus of the dilute alloys, which reflects the solutes' bonding to Mg. Transition metal elements with d electrons show strong interactions with Mg and have large diffusion activation energies. Correlation effects are not negligible for solutes Ca, Na, Sr, Se, Te, and Y, in which the direct solute migration barriers are much smaller than the solvent (Mg) migration barriers. Calculated diffusion coefficients are in remarkable agreement with available experimental data in the literature.

Structural, electronic, mechanical, thermal and optical properties of B(P,As)1-xNx; (x = 0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1) alloys and hardness of B(P,As) under compression using DFT calculations

Science.gov (United States)

Viswanathan, E.; Sundareswari, M.; Jayalakshmi, D. S.; Manjula, M.; Krishnaveni, S.

2017-09-01

First principles calculations are carried out in order to analyze the structural, electronic, mechanical, thermal and optical properties of BP and BAs compounds by ternary alloying with nitrogen namely B(P,As)1-xNx (x = 0.25, 0.5, 0.75) alloys at ambient condition. Thereby we report the mechanical and thermal properties of B(P,As)1-xNx (x = 0.25, 0.5, 0.75) alloys namely bulk modulus, shear modulus, Young's modulus, hardness, ductile-brittle nature, elastic wave velocity, Debye temperature, melting point, etc.; optical properties of B(P)1-xNx (x = 0.25, 0.5, 0.75) and B(As)1-xNx (x = 0.25, 0.75) alloys namely the dielectric function of real and imaginary part, refractive index, extinction coefficient and reflectivity and the hardness profile of the parent compounds BP and BAs under compression. The charge density plot, density of states histograms and band structures are plotted and discussed for all the ternary alloys of the present study. The calculated results agree very well with the available literature. Analysis of the present study reveals that the ternary alloy combinations namely BP.25N.75 and BAs.25N.75 could be superhard materials; hardness of BP and BAs increases with compression.

Mg-Ca Alloys Produced by Reduction of CaO: Understanding of ECO-Mg Alloy Production

Science.gov (United States)

Jung, In-Ho; Lee, Jin Kyu; Kim, Shae K.

2017-04-01

There have been long debates about the environment conscious (ECO) Mg technology which utilizes CaO to produce Ca-containing Mg alloys. Two key process technologies of the ECO-Mg process are the chemical reduction of CaO by liquid Mg and the maintenance of melt cleanliness during the alloying of Ca. Thermodynamic calculations using FactSage software were performed to explain these two key issues. In addition, an experimental study was performed to compare the melt cleanliness of the Ca-containing Mg alloys produced by the conventional route with metallic Ca and the ECO-Mg route with CaO.

Susceptibility of ternary aluminum alloys to cracking during solidification

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Liu, Jiangwei; Kou, Sindo

2017-01-01

The crack susceptibility map of a ternary Al alloy system provides useful information about which alloy compositions are most susceptible to cracking and thus should be avoided by using a filler metal with a significantly different composition. In the present study the crack susceptibility maps of ternary Al alloy systems were calculated based on the maximum |dT/d(f S ) 1/2 | as an index for the crack susceptibility, where T is temperature and f S fraction solid. Due to the complexity associated with ternary alloy solidification, commercial thermodynamic software Pandat and Al database PanAluminum, instead of analytical equations, were used to calculate f S as a function of T and hence the maximum |dT/d(f S ) 1/2 | for ternary Al-Mg-Si, Al-Cu-Mg and Al-Cu-Si alloy systems. A crack susceptibility map covering 121 alloy compositions was constructed for each of the three ternary alloy systems at each of the following three levels of back diffusion: no back diffusion, back diffusion under a 100 °C/s cooling rate, and back diffusion under 20° C/s. The location of the region of high crack susceptibility, which is the most important part of the map, was shown in each of the nine calculated maps. These locations were compared with those observed in crack susceptibility tests by previous investigators. With back diffusion considered, either under 20 or 100 °C/s, the agreement between the calculated and observed maps was good especially for Al-Mg-Si and Al-Cu-Mg. Thus, the maximum |dT/d(f S ) 1/2 | can be used as a crack susceptibility index to construct crack susceptibility maps for ternary Al alloys and to evaluate the effect of back diffusion on their crack susceptibility. - Graphical abstract: The crack susceptibility map of a ternary alloy system indicates the composition range most susceptible to cracking, which should be avoided in welding or casting. The crack susceptibility maps of ternary Al alloy systems Al-Mg-Si, Al-Cu-Mg and Al-Cu-Si were calculated based

Structure and composition of layers of Ni-Co-Mn-In Heusler alloys obtained by pulsed laser deposition

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wisz, Grzegorz; Sagan, Piotr; Stefaniuk, Ireneusz; Cieniek, Bogumil; Maziarz, Wojciech; Kuzma, Marian

2017-01-01

In present work we were analysing thin layers of Ni-Co-Mn-In alloys, grown by pulsed laser deposition method (PLD) on Si, NaCl and glass substrates. For target ablation the second harmonics of YAG:Nd 3+ laser was used. The target had the composition Ni 45 Co 5 Mn 34.5 In 14.5 . The morphology of the layers and composition were studied by electron microscopy TESCAN Vega3 equipped with microanalyzer EDS – Easy EdX system working with Esprit Bruker software. The X-ray diffraction measurements (XRD), performed on spectrometer Bruker XRD D8 Advance system, reveals Ni 2 -Mn-In cubic phase having lattice constant a = 6.02Å.

Structural and electronic properties of zinc blende B{sub x}Al{sub 1-x}N{sub y}P{sub 1-y} quaternary alloys via first-principle calculations

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Abdiche, A., E-mail: abdiche_a@yahoo.fr [Engineering Physics Laboratory, Tiaret University, 14000 Tiaret (Algeria); Baghdad, R. [Engineering Physics Laboratory, Tiaret University, 14000 Tiaret (Algeria); Khenata, R., E-mail: khenata_rabah@yahoo.fr [Laboratoire de Physique Quantique et de Modelisation Mathematique (LPQ3M), Departement de Technologie, Universite de Mascara, 29000 Mascara (Algeria); Department of Physics and Astronomy, King Saud University, P.O Box 2455, Riyadh 11451 (Saudi Arabia); Riane, R. [Computational Materials Science Laboratory, University Research of Sidi-Bel-Abbes, 22000 Algeria (Algeria); Al-Douri, Y. [Institute of Nono Electronic Engineering, University Malaysia Perlis, 01000 Kangar, Perlis (Malaysia); Guemou, M. [Engineering Physics Laboratory, Tiaret University, 14000 Tiaret (Algeria); Bin-Omran, S. [Department of Physics and Astronomy, King Saud University, P.O Box 2455, Riyadh 11451 (Saudi Arabia)

2012-02-01

The structural and electronic properties of cubic zinc blende BN, BP, AlN and AlP compounds and their B{sub x}Al{sub 1-x}N{sub y}P{sub 1-y} quaternary alloys, have been calculated using the non relativistic full-potential linearized-augmented plane wave FP-LAPW method. The exchange-correlation potential is treated with the local density approximation of Perdew and Wang (LDA-PW) as well as the generalized gradient approximation (GGA) of Perdew-Burke and Ernzerhof (GGA-PBE). The calculated structural properties of BN, BP, AlN and AlP compounds are in good agreement with the available experimental and theoretical data. A nonlinear variation of compositions x and y with the lattice constants, bulk modulus, direct and indirect band gaps is found. The calculated bowing of the fundamental band gaps is in good agreement with the available experimental and theoretical value. To our knowledge this is the first quantitative theoretical investigation on B{sub x}Al{sub 1-x}N{sub y}P{sub 1-y} quaternary alloy and still awaits experimental confirmations.

Spin injection from Co2MnGa into an InGaAs quantum well

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Hickey, M. C.; Damsgaard, Christian Danvad; Holmes, S. N.

2008-01-01

We have demonstrated spin injection from a full Heusler alloy Co2MnGa thin film into a (100) InGaAs quantum well in a semiconductor light-emitting diode structure at a temperature of 5 K. The detection is performed in the oblique Hanle geometry, allowing quantification of the effective spin lifet...

Martensitic transition, inverse magnetocaloric effect and shape memory characteristics in Mn{sub 48−x}Cu{sub x}Ni{sub 42}Sn{sub 10} Heusler alloys

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Liu, Changqin [Department of Physics, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444 (China); Li, Zhe [Reasearch center for magnetic materials and devices & Key Laboratory for Advanced Functional and Low Dimensional Materials of Yunnan Higher Education Institute, Qujing Normal University, Qujing 655011 (China); Zhang, Yuanlei [Department of Physics, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444 (China); Reasearch center for magnetic materials and devices & Key Laboratory for Advanced Functional and Low Dimensional Materials of Yunnan Higher Education Institute, Qujing Normal University, Qujing 655011 (China); Liu, Yang; Sun, Junkun; Huang, Yinsheng; Kang, Baojuan [Department of Physics, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444 (China); Xu, Kun [Reasearch center for magnetic materials and devices & Key Laboratory for Advanced Functional and Low Dimensional Materials of Yunnan Higher Education Institute, Qujing Normal University, Qujing 655011 (China); Deng, Dongmei [Department of Physics, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444 (China); Jing, Chao, E-mail: cjing@staff.shu.edu.cn [Department of Physics, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444 (China)

2017-03-01

In this paper, we have systematically prepared a serials of polycrystalline Mn{sub 48−x}Cu{sub x}Ni{sub 42}Sn{sub 10} alloys (x=0, 1, 3, 5, 6, 8, 10 and 12) and investigated the influence of the Cu doping on martensitic transition (MT) as well as magnetic properties. Experimental results indicate that the MT temperature and the martensite Curie temperature (T{sub c}{sup M}) shift to high temperature with increasing the substitution of Cu (from Mn rich alloy to Ni rich alloy), while the austenite Curie temperature (T{sub c}{sup A}) is almost unchanged. It was found that the structures undergo L2{sub 1} and 4O with the increasing of Cu concentration near room temperature. Therefore, the magnetostructural transition can be tuned by appropriate Cu doping in these alloys. Moreover, we mainly studied the multiple functional properties for inverse magnetocaloric effect and shape memory characteristics associated with the martensitic transition. A large positive isothermal entropy change of Mn{sub 48}Ni{sub 42}Sn{sub 10} was obtained, and the maximum transition entropy change achieves about 48 J/kg K as x=8. In addition, a considerable temperature-induced spontaneous strain with the value of 0.16% was obtained for Mn{sub 48}Ni{sub 42}Sn{sub 10} alloys.

Thermodynamic Database for Zirconium Alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Jerlerud Perez, Rosa

2003-05-01

For many decades zirconium alloys have been commonly used in the nuclear power industry as fuel cladding material. Besides their good corrosion resistance and acceptable mechanical properties the main reason of using these alloys is the low neutron absorption. Zirconium alloys are exposed to a very severe environment during the nuclear fission process and there is a demand for better design of this material. To meet this requirement a thermodynamic database is developed to support material designers. In this thesis some aspects about the development of a thermodynamic database for zirconium alloys are presented. A thermodynamic database represents an important facility in applying thermodynamic equilibrium calculations for a given material providing: 1) relevant information about the thermodynamic properties of the alloys e.g. enthalpies, activities, heat capacity, and 2) significant information for the manufacturing process e.g. heat treatment temperature. The basic information in the database is first the unary data, i.e. pure elements; those are taken from the compilation of the Scientific Group Thermodata Europe (SGTE) and then the binary and ternary systems. All phases present in those binary and ternary systems are described by means of the Gibbs energy dependence on composition and temperature. Many of those binary systems have been taken from published or unpublished works and others have been assessed in the present work. All the calculations have been made using Thermo C alc software and the representation of the Gibbs energy obtained by applying Calphad technique

Magnetic tunneling junctions with the Heusler compound Co{sub 2}Cr{sub 0.6}Fe{sub 0.4}Al

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Conca Parra, A.

2007-07-20

Materials with large spin polarization are required for applications in spintronics devices. For this reason, major research efforts are directed to study the properties of compounds which are expected to be half metals, i.e. materials with 100% spin polarization. Half metals are expected to have a gap in the density of states at the Fermi energy for one spin band while the other spin band is metallic leading to a completely spin polarized current. The ferromagnetic full Heusler alloy Co{sub 2}Cr{sub 0.6}Fe{sub 0.4}Al (CCFA) has attracted great interest in the field of spintronics. The high Tc (800 K) and the expected half metallicity make CCFA a good candidate for applications in spintronic devices such as magnetic tunneling junctions (MTJs). This thesis presents the results of the study of the electronic and structural properties of CCFA thin films. The films were implemented in magnetic tunneling junctions and the tunneling magnetoresistance effect (TMR) was investigated. The main objectives were the measurement of the spin polarisation of the CCFA alloy and to obtain information about its electronic structure. The influence of the deposition conditions on the thin film properties and on the surface crystalline order and their respective influence on the TMR ratio was investigated. Epitaxial CCFA thin films with two alternative growth orientations were deposited on different substrates and buffer layers. An annealing step was used to improve the crystalline properties of the thin films. In the tunneling junctions, Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} was used as a barrier material and Co was chosen as counter electrode. The multilayer systems were patterned in Mesa structures using lithographic techniques. In the framework of the Julliere model, a maximum spin polarisation of 54% at 4K was measured in tunneling junctions with epitaxial CCFA electrodes. A strong influence of the annealing temperature on the TMR ratio was determined. The increase of the TMR ratio could be correlated

Viscosity of Ga-Li liquid alloys

Science.gov (United States)

Vidyaev, Dmitriy; Boretsky, Evgeny; Verkhorubov, Dmitriy

2018-03-01

The measurement of dynamic viscosity of Ga-Li liquid alloys has been performed using low-frequency vibrational viscometer at five temperatures in the range 313-353 K and four gallium-based dilute alloy compositions containing 0-1.15 at.% Li. It was found that the viscosity of the considered alloys increases with decreasing temperature and increasing lithium concentration in the above ranges. It was shown that dependence of the viscosity of Ga-Li alloys in the investigated temperature range has been described by Arrhenius equation. For this equation the activation energy of viscous flow and pre-exponential factor were calculated. This study helped to determine the conditions of the alkali metals separating process in gallam-exchange systems.

Graph theory and binary alloys passivated by nickel

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

McCafferty, E.

2005-01-01

The passivity of a nickel binary alloy is considered in terms of a network of -Ni-O-Ni- bridges in the oxide film, where Ni is the component of the binary alloy which produces passivity. The structure of the oxide is represented by a mathematical graph, and graph theory is used to calculate the connectivity of the oxide, given by the product of the number of edges in the graph and the Randic index. A stochastic calculation is employed to insert ions of the second metal into the oxide film so as to disrupt the connectivity of the -Ni-O-Ni- network. This disruption occurs at a critical ionic concentration of the oxide film. Mathematical relationships are developed for the introduction of a general ion B +n into the oxide film, and critical ionic compositions are calculated for oxide films on the nickel binary alloys. The notation B refers to any metal B which produces B +n ions in the oxide film, where +n is the oxidation number of the ion. The results of this analysis for Fe-Ni and Cu-Ni binary alloys are in good agreement with experimental results

Transport and magnetic properties of HITPERM alloys

Science.gov (United States)

Pekala, K.; Latuch, J.; Pekala, M.; Skorvanek, I.; Jaskiewicz, P.

2003-02-01

Nanocrystalline HITPERM alloys Fe44.6Co43.3X7.4B3.7Cu1 (X = Nb, Zr, Hf) prepared by crystallization of amorphous precursors are studied by magnetization and electrical resistivity measurements for the first time. Structural and magnetic components of the electrical resistivity are separated. The electrical resistivity of the nanocrystalline α' (FeCo) phase calculated using the Maxwell Garnett relation proves strong electron scattering on the grain boundaries. The temperature variation of the crystalline fraction during the first crystallization stage is calculated for the Hf based alloy.

Resistivity of strong-scattering alloys: Absence of localization and success of coherent-potential approximation confirmed by exact supercell calculations in V/sub 1-//sub x/Al/sub x/

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Brown, R.H.; Allen, P.B.; Nicholson, D.M.; Butler, W.H.

1989-01-01

A supercell procedure for exact evaluation of the one-electron Kubo-Greenwood formula is applied to the resistivity rho of V/sub 1-//sub x/Al/sub x/ alloys and compared with a Korringa-Kohn-Rostoker coherent-potential approximation calculation. The results of these calculations agree well, consistent with the observation of delocalized eigenstates, in spite of the very high resistivity, rho≅200 μΩ cm

Distribution of impurity states and charge transport in Zr{sub 0.25}Hf{sub 0.75}Ni{sub 1+x}Sn{sub 1−y}Sb{sub y} nanocomposites

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Liu, Yuanfeng; Makongo, Julien P.A. [Laboratory for Emerging Energy and Electronic Materials, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109 (United States); Page, Alexander [Department of Physics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109 (United States); Sahoo, Pranati [Laboratory for Emerging Energy and Electronic Materials, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109 (United States); Uher, Ctirad [Department of Physics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109 (United States); Stokes, Kevin [The Advanced Materials Research Institute, Department of Physics, University of New Orleans, New Orleans, LA 70148 (United States); Poudeu, Pierre F.P., E-mail: ppoudeup@umich.edu [Laboratory for Emerging Energy and Electronic Materials, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109 (United States)

2016-02-15

Energy filtering of charge carriers in a semiconducting matrix using atomically coherent nanostructures can lead to a significant improvement of the thermoelectric figure of merit of the resulting composite. In this work, several half-Heusler/full-Heusler (HH/FH) nanocomposites with general compositions Zr{sub 0.25}Hf{sub 0.75}Ni{sub 1+x}Sn{sub 1−y}Sb{sub y} (0≤x≤0.15 and y=0.005, 0.01 and 0.025) were synthesized in order to investigate the behavior of extrinsic carriers at the HH/FH interfaces. Electronic transport data showed that energy filtering of carriers at the HH/FH interfaces in Zr{sub 0.25}Hf{sub 0.75}Ni{sub 1+x}Sn{sub 1−y}Sb{sub y} samples strongly depends on the doping level (y value) as well as the energy levels occupied by impurity states in the samples. For example, it was found that carrier filtering at HH/FH interfaces is negligible in Zr{sub 0.25}Hf{sub 0.75}Ni{sub 1+x}Sn{sub 1−y}Sb{sub y} (y=0.01 and 0.025) composites where donor states originating from Sb dopant dominate electronic conduction. However, we observed a drastic decrease in the effective carrier density upon introduction of HH/FH interfaces for the mechanically alloyed Zr{sub 0.25}Hf{sub 0.75}Ni{sub 1+x}Sn{sub 0.995}Sb{sub 0.005} samples where donor states from unintentional Fe impurities contribute the largest fraction of conduction electrons. This work demonstrates the ability to synergistically integrate the concepts of doping and energy filtering through nanostructuring for the optimization of electronic transport in semiconductors. - Graphical abstract: Electronic transport in semiconducting half-Heusler (HH) matrices containing full-Heusler (FH) nanoinclusions strongly depends on the energy distribution of impurity states within the HH matrix with respect to the magnitude of the potential energy barrier at the HH/FH interfaces. - Highlights: • Coherent nanostructures enhanced thermoelectric behavior of half-Heusler alloys. • Nanostructures act as energy filter of

Theory of Anion-Substituted Nitrogen-Bearing III-V Alloys

Science.gov (United States)

1998-07-20

was found by Zunger group). When more than 4% arsenic is incorporated into GaN in an ordered array, the band gap closes . Calculations of the...arsenic is incorporated into GaN in an ordered array, the band gap closes . Calculations of the properties of random alloys predict smaller bowing...BEARING lll-V ALLOYS Prepared by: M. A. Berding, Senior Research Physicist M. van Schilfgaarde, Senior Research Physicist A. Sher, Associate Director

Thermodynamic properties of uranium in gallium–aluminium based alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Volkovich, V.A.; Maltsev, D.S.; Yamshchikov, L.F.; Chukin, A.V.; Smolenski, V.V.; Novoselova, A.V.; Osipenko, A.G.

2015-01-01

Activity, activity coefficients and solubility of uranium was determined in gallium-aluminium alloys containing 1.6 (eutectic), 5 and 20 wt.% aluminium. Additionally, activity of uranium was determined in aluminium and Ga–Al alloys containing 0.014–20 wt.% Al. Experiments were performed up to 1073 K. Intermetallic compounds formed in the alloys were characterized by X-ray diffraction. Partial and excess thermodynamic functions of U in the studied alloys were calculated. - Highlights: • Thermodynamics of uranium is determined in Ga–Al alloys of various compositions. • Uranium in the mixed alloys interacts with both components, Ga and Al. • Interaction of U with Al increases with decreasing temperature. • Activity and solubility of uranium depend on Al content in Ga–Al alloys.

Thermodynamic properties of uranium in gallium–aluminium based alloys

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Volkovich, V.A., E-mail: v.a.volkovich@urfu.ru [Department of Rare Metals and Nanomaterials, Institute of Physics and Technology, Ural Federal University, Ekaterinburg, 620002 (Russian Federation); Maltsev, D.S.; Yamshchikov, L.F. [Department of Rare Metals and Nanomaterials, Institute of Physics and Technology, Ural Federal University, Ekaterinburg, 620002 (Russian Federation); Chukin, A.V. [Department of Theoretical Physics and Applied Mathematics, Institute of Physics and Technology, Ural Federal University, Ekaterinburg, 620002 (Russian Federation); Smolenski, V.V.; Novoselova, A.V. [Institute of High-Temperature Electrochemistry UD RAS, Ekaterinburg, 620137 (Russian Federation); Osipenko, A.G. [JSC “State Scientific Centre - Research Institute of Atomic Reactors”, Dimitrovgrad, 433510 (Russian Federation)

2015-10-15

Activity, activity coefficients and solubility of uranium was determined in gallium-aluminium alloys containing 1.6 (eutectic), 5 and 20 wt.% aluminium. Additionally, activity of uranium was determined in aluminium and Ga–Al alloys containing 0.014–20 wt.% Al. Experiments were performed up to 1073 K. Intermetallic compounds formed in the alloys were characterized by X-ray diffraction. Partial and excess thermodynamic functions of U in the studied alloys were calculated. - Highlights: • Thermodynamics of uranium is determined in Ga–Al alloys of various compositions. • Uranium in the mixed alloys interacts with both components, Ga and Al. • Interaction of U with Al increases with decreasing temperature. • Activity and solubility of uranium depend on Al content in Ga–Al alloys.

Thermodynamic and experimental study on phase stability in nanocrystalline alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Xu Wenwu; Song Xiaoyan; Lu Nianduan; Huang Chuan

2010-01-01

Nanocrystalline alloys exhibit apparently different phase transformation characteristics in comparison to the conventional polycrystalline alloys. The special phase stability and phase transformation behavior, as well as the essential mechanisms of the nanocrystalline alloys, were described quantitatively in a nanothermodynamic point of view. By introducing the relationship between the excess volume at the grain boundary and the nanograin size, the Gibbs free energy was determined distinctly as a function of temperature and the nanograin size. Accordingly, the grain-size-dependence of the phase stability and phase transformation characteristics of the nanocrystalline alloy were calculated systematically, and the correlations between the phase constitution, the phase transformation temperature and the critical nanograin size were predicted. A series of experiments was performed to investigate the phase transformations at room temperature and high temperatures using the nanocrystalline Sm 2 Co 17 alloy as an example. The phase constitution and phase transformation sequence found in nanocrystalline Sm 2 Co 17 alloys with various grain-size levels agree well with the calculations by the nanothermodynamic model.

The experimental viscosity and calculated relative viscosity of liquid In-Sn allcoys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wu, A.Q.; Guo, L.J.; Liu, C.S.; Jia, E.G.; Zhu, Z.G.

2007-01-01

The experimental measured viscosity of liquid pure Sn, In 20 Sn 80 and In 80 Sn 20 alloys was studied, and to make a comparison, the calculated relative viscosity based on the pair distribution functions, g(r), has also been studied. There is one peak in each experimental viscosity and calculated relative-viscosity curve of liquid pure Sn about 1000 deg. C. One valley appears in each experimental viscosity and calculated viscosity curve of liquid In 20 Sn 80 alloy about 700 deg. C. There is no abnormal behavior on In 80 Sn 20 alloy. The behavior of experimental viscosity and calculated relative viscosity is coincident with each other. Those results conformed that the temperature-induced structure anomalies reported before did take place

Structural, electronic, magnetic, half-metallic, mechanical, and thermodynamic properties of the quaternary Heusler compound FeCrRuSi: A first-principles study.

Science.gov (United States)

Wang, Xiaotian; Khachai, Houari; Khenata, Rabah; Yuan, Hongkuan; Wang, Liying; Wang, Wenhong; Bouhemadou, Abdelmadjid; Hao, Liyu; Dai, Xuefang; Guo, Ruikang; Liu, Guodong; Cheng, Zhenxiang

2017-11-23

In this paper, we have investigated the structural, electronic, magnetic, half-metallic, mechanical, and thermodynamic properties of the equiatomic quaternary Heusler (EQH) compound FeCrRuSi using the density functional theory (DFT) and the quasi-harmonic Debye model. Our results reveal that FeCrRuSi is a half-metallic material (HMM) with a total magnetic moment of 2.0 μ B in agreement with the well-known Slater-Pauling rule M t  = Z t  - 24. Furthermore, the origin of the half-metallic band gap in FeCrRuSi is well studied through a schematic diagram of the possible d-d hybridization between Fe, Cr and Ru elements. The half-metallic behavior of FeCrRuSi can be maintained in a relatively wide range of variations of the lattice constant (5.5-5.8 Å) under uniform strain and the c/a ratio (0.96-1.05) under tetragonal distortion. The calculated phonon dispersion, cohesive and formation energies, and mechanical properties reveal that FeCrRuSi is stable with an EQH structure. Importantly, the compound of interest has been prepared and is found to exist in an EQH type structure with the presence of some B2 disorder. Moreover, the thermodynamic properties, such as the thermal expansion coefficient α, the heat capacity C V , the Grüneisen constant γ, and the Debye temperature Θ D are calculated.

Corrosion behavior of friction stir welded AZ31B Mg alloy - Al6063 alloy joint

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

B. Ratna Sunil

2016-12-01

Full Text Available In the present work, AZ31B Mg alloy and Al6063 alloy-rolled sheets were successfully joined by friction stir welding. Microstructural studies revealed a sound joint with good mechanical mixing of both the alloys at the nugget zone. Corrosion performance of the joint was assessed by immersing in 3.5% NaCl solution for different intervals of time and the corrosion rate was calculated. The joint has undergone severe corrosion attack compared with both the base materials (AZ31B and Al6063 alloys. The predominant corrosion mechanism behind the high corrosion rate of the joint was found to be high galvanic corrosion. From the results, it can be suggested that the severe corrosion of dissimilar Mg–Al joints must be considered as a valid input while designing structures intended to work in corroding environment.

Electronic Topological Transitions in CuNiMnAl and CuNiMnSn under pressure from first principles study

Science.gov (United States)

Rambabu, P.; Kanchana, V.

2018-06-01

A detailed study on quaternary ordered full Heusler alloys CuNiMnAl and CuNiMnSn at ambient and under different compressions is presented using first principles electronic structure calculations. Both the compounds are found to possess ferromagnetic nature at ambient with magnetic moment of Mn being 3.14 μB and 3.35 μB respectively in CuNiMnAl and CuNiMnSn. The total magnetic moment for both the compounds is found to decrease under compression. Fermi surface (FS) topology change is observed in both compounds under pressure at V/V0 = 0.90, further leading to Electronic Topological Transitions (ETTs) and is evidenced by the anomalies visualized in density of states and elastic constants under compression.

Giant magnetocaloric effect from reverse martensitic transformation in Ni–Mn–Ga–Cu ferromagnetic shape memory alloys

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Sarkar, Sudip Kumar, E-mail: sudips@barc.gov.in [Glass and Advanced Materials Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai, 400085 (India); Sarita [Glass and Advanced Materials Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai, 400085 (India); Babu, P.D. [UGC-DAE Consortium for Scientific Research, Mumbai Centre, BARC, Mumbai, 400085 (India); Biswas, Aniruddha [Glass and Advanced Materials Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai, 400085 (India); Siruguri, Vasudeva [UGC-DAE Consortium for Scientific Research, Mumbai Centre, BARC, Mumbai, 400085 (India); Krishnan, Madangopal [Glass and Advanced Materials Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai, 400085 (India)

2016-06-15

In an effort to produce Giant Magnetocaloric effect (GMCE) near room temperature, in a first ever such study, the austenite transformation temperature (A{sub s}) was fine tuned to ferromagnetic Curie temperature (T{sub C}) in Ferromagnetic Shape Memory Alloys (FSMA) and a large GMCE of ΔSM = −81.8 J/Kg-K was achieved in Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 18.5}Cu{sub 6.5}Ga{sub 25} alloy during reverse martensitic transformation (heating cycle) for a magnetic field change of 9 T at 303 K. Fine tuning of A{sub s} with T{sub C} was achieved by Cu substitution in Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 25−x}Cu{sub x}Ga{sub 25} (0 ≤ x ≤ 7.0)-based FSMAs. Characterizations of these alloys were carried out using Optical and Scanning Electron Microscopy, X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and DC magnetization measurements. Addition of Cu to stoichiometric Heusler type Ni{sub 2}MnGa increases the martensitic transformation temperatures and decreases T{sub C}. Concurrently, ΔSM increases with Cu addition and peaks at 6.5 at% Cu for which there is a virtual overlap between T{sub C} and A{sub s}. Maximum Refrigerant Capacity (RCP) of 327.0 J/Kg was also achieved in the heating cycle for 9 T field change at 303 K. Corresponding values for the cooling cycle measurements (measured during forward transformation) were 30.4 J/Kg-K and 123.5 J/Kg respectively for the same 6.5 at% Cu sample under the same thermo-magnetic conditions. - Highlights: • A{sub s} was fine tuned to T{sub C} in Cu substituted Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 25−x}Cu{sub x}Ga{sub 25} (0 ≤ x ≤ 7.0) alloys. • MT temperature increases with Cu addition while T{sub C} decreases. • A virtual overlapping of A{sub s} with T{sub C} was found in Ni{sub 50}Mn{sub 18.5}Cu{sub 6.5}Ga{sub 25} alloys. • ΔSM = −81.8 J/Kg-K achieved from reverse MT for Δ(μ{sub 0}H) = 9 T at 303 K. • A highest RCP value of 94.6 J/Kg was observed for Δ(μ{sub 0}H) = 5 T in Cu:6.5 alloys.

Half-metallic ferromagnetism in full-Heusler compounds ACaX2 (A = K and Rb; X = N and O)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Umamaheswari, R.; Vijayalakshmi, D.; Yogeswari, M.; Kalpana, G.

2014-01-01

Electronic structure and magnetic properties of hypothetical ACaX 2 (A = K and Rb; X= N and O) compounds in full-Heusler phase have been investigated based on density functional theory (DFT) within the local density approximation (LDA). The electronic band structures and density of states of these compounds show that the spin-down electrons have metallic, and the spin-up electrons have a semi conducting gap resulting in stable half-metallic ferromagnetic behaviour. The strong spin polarization of 2p states of N and O atoms is found to be the origin of ferromagnetism which results in a total magnetic moment of 3 μB and 1 μB respectively

Characteristics of a granular electronic system in Heusler-type Fe2+xV1−xAl

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Naka, T; Sato, K; Taguchi, M; Nakane, T; Matsushita, A; Shirakawa, N; Ishikawa, F; Yamada, Yuh; Takaesu, Y; Nakama, T

2013-01-01

We report comprehensive measurements of the magnetic, transport, and thermal properties of the Heusler-type compound Fe 2+x V 1−x Al, with x values near the ferromagnetic quantum critical point, x c ∼ 0.05. At T ∼ 60 K, a prominent Schottky-like anomaly appeared in the specific heat; this anomaly was correlated with a smaller pseudo-gap formation in magnetic susceptibility, magnetoresistance, and thermoelectric power. Furthermore, a magnetic anomaly observed in the magnetic susceptibility and resistivity at T ∼ 4 K was suppressed significantly by applying a magnetic field. A magnetically inhomogeneous phase arose below T ∼ 60 K, which appeared to consist of ferromagnetic and paramagnetic clusters. (paper)

Measurement and Analysis of Density of Molten Ni-W Alloys

Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)

FANG Liang; XIAO Feng; TAO Zainan; MuKai Kusuhiro

2005-01-01

The density of molten Ni-W alloys was measured with a modified pycnometric method. It is found that the density of the molten Ni- W alloys decreases with temperature rising, but increases with the increase of tungsten concentration in the alloys. The molar volume of molten Ni- W binary alloys increases with the increase of temperature and tungsten concentration. The partial molar volume of tungsten in liquid Ni- W binary alloy has been calculated approximately as ( - 1.59+ 5.64 × 10-3 T) × 10-6m3 ·mol-1.

Vaporization study on lanthanum-neodymium alloys by mass-spectrometry

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Shoji, Y.; Matsui, T.

1999-01-01

Partial vapor pressure of Nd(g) over La x Nd 1-x alloys (x = 0.10, 0.20, 0.30, 0.40, 0.50, 0.60, 0.70, 0.80 and 0.90) was measured with a time-of-flight mass-spectrometer equipped with a tungsten Knudsen cell over the temperature range of 1474-1767 K. Thermodynamic activity of neodymium in the liquid alloys was determined by comparing the partial vapor pressure of Nd(g) over the alloys with that over the pure metal. The thermodynamic activity of lanthanum in the alloys was calculated from that of neodymium obtained experimentally in this study by graphic integration using the Gibbs-Duhem equation. Both activities for each element, thus obtained, showed positive deviations from Raoult's law over the entire compositional range. Thermodynamic quantities such as Gibbs free energy of formation, excess enthalpy etc. were also calculated from the thermodynamic activities. (orig.)

Structure, magnetic and thermo-mechanic properties of Ni2.14Mn0.81Fe0.05Ga Heusler alloy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Borisenko, I.D.; Koledov, V.V.; Khovajlo, V.V.; Khudaverdyan, T.O.; Shavrov, V.G.; Grechishkin, R.M.; Krasnoperov, E.P.; Li, Ya.; Tszyan, Ch.

2005-01-01

The influence of a strong magnetic field, single-axis pressure and intensive ultrasound on the process of structural (martensitic) transition on polycrystals of ferromagnetic alloy Ni 2.14 Mn 0.81 Fe 0.05 Ga with shape memory was studied experimentally. It is shown that magnetic field up to 8 T shifts without essential distortions the temperature hysteresis loop of martensitic transition to the range of higher temperatures, single-axis pressure blurs the martensitic transition, expanding the temperature hysteresis loop, while ultrasonic vibration may result in contraction of the hysteresis loop [ru

Ab initio lattice stability of fcc and hcp Fe-Mn random alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gebhardt, T; Music, D; Hallstedt, B; Schneider, J M; Ekholm, M; Abrikosov, I A; Vitos, L

2010-01-01

We have studied the lattice stability of face centred cubic (fcc) versus hexagonal close packed (hcp) Fe-Mn random alloys using ab initio calculations. In the calculations we considered the antiferromagnetic order of local moments, which for fcc alloys models the magnetic configuration of this phase at room temperature (below its Neel temperature) as well as their complete disorder, corresponding to paramagnetic fcc and hcp alloys. For both cases, the results are consistent with our thermodynamic calculations, obtained within the Calphad approach. For the room temperature magnetic configuration, the cross-over of the total energies of the hcp phase and the fcc phase of Fe-Mn alloys is at the expected Mn content, whereas for the magnetic configuration above the fcc Neel temperature, the hcp lattice is more stable within the whole composition range studied. The increase of the total energy difference between hcp and antiferromagnetic fcc due to additions of Mn as well as the stabilizing effect of antiferromagnetic ordering on the fcc phase are well displayed. These results are of relevance for understanding the deformation mechanisms of these random alloys.

Ab initio lattice stability of fcc and hcp Fe-Mn random alloys

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Gebhardt, T; Music, D; Hallstedt, B; Schneider, J M [Materials Chemistry, RWTH Aachen University, D-52056 Aachen (Germany); Ekholm, M; Abrikosov, I A [Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology (IFM), Linkoeping University, SE-581 83 Linkoeping (Sweden); Vitos, L, E-mail: gebhardt@mch.rwth-aachen.d [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Applied Materials Physics, oyal Institute of Technology, SE-10044 Stockholm (Sweden)

2010-07-28

We have studied the lattice stability of face centred cubic (fcc) versus hexagonal close packed (hcp) Fe-Mn random alloys using ab initio calculations. In the calculations we considered the antiferromagnetic order of local moments, which for fcc alloys models the magnetic configuration of this phase at room temperature (below its Neel temperature) as well as their complete disorder, corresponding to paramagnetic fcc and hcp alloys. For both cases, the results are consistent with our thermodynamic calculations, obtained within the Calphad approach. For the room temperature magnetic configuration, the cross-over of the total energies of the hcp phase and the fcc phase of Fe-Mn alloys is at the expected Mn content, whereas for the magnetic configuration above the fcc Neel temperature, the hcp lattice is more stable within the whole composition range studied. The increase of the total energy difference between hcp and antiferromagnetic fcc due to additions of Mn as well as the stabilizing effect of antiferromagnetic ordering on the fcc phase are well displayed. These results are of relevance for understanding the deformation mechanisms of these random alloys.

First principles calculations for analysis martensitic transformations

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Harmon, B.N.; Zhao, G.L.; Ho, K.M.; Chan, C.T.; Ye, Y.Y.; Ding, Y.; Zhang, B.L.

1993-01-01

The change in crystal energy is calculated for atomic displacements corresponding to phonons, elastic shears, and lattice transformations. Anomalies in the phonon dispersion curves of NiAl and NiTi are analyzed and recent calculations for TiPd alloys are presented

Phase formation in multicomponent monotectic aluminium alloys

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Mirkovic, Djordje; Groebner, Joachim; Schmid-Fetzer, Rainer [Institute of Metallurgy, Clausthal University of Technology (Germany)

2008-07-01

Alloys with a miscibility gap in the liquid state are potential materials for advanced bearings in automotive and other applications. While binary alloys, such as Al-Pb or Al-Bi, are well known, the information available for ternary monotectic Al-alloys is scarce. However, the phase formation in multicomponent alloys is not only more challenging from a scientific aspect, it is also a prerequisite for a focused development of advanced alloys. This motivated our detailed study of monotectic Al-Bi-Cu-Sn alloys including both experimental and computational thermodynamic methods. Based on the initially established systematic classification of monotectic ternary Al-alloys, the first promising monotectic reaction was observed in the ternary Al-Bi-Zn system. Further ternary systems Al-Cu-Sn, Al-Bi-Sn, Al-Bi-Cu and Bi-Cu-Sn were investigated as basis for quaternary Al-Bi-Cu-Sn alloys. Experimental investigations of phase equilibria, enthalpies and solidification microstructures were combined with thermodynamic modeling. The results demonstrate that the developed precise thermodynamic description is vital to reveal the distinct multicomponent monotectic features of pertinent phase diagrams. The solidification paths of ternary monotectic alloy systems, Al-Bi-Zn, Al-Sn-Cu and Al-Bi-Cu, were also studied using thermodynamic calculations, revealing specific details of phase formation during solidification of selected alloys.

Solidification paths of multicomponent monotectic aluminum alloys

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Mirkovic, Djordje; Groebner, Joachim [Clausthal University of Technology, Institute of Metallurgy, Robert-Koch-Street 42, D-38678 Clausthal-Zellerfeld (Germany); Schmid-Fetzer, Rainer [Clausthal University of Technology, Institute of Metallurgy, Robert-Koch-Street 42, D-38678 Clausthal-Zellerfeld (Germany)], E-mail: schmid-fetzer@tu-clausthal.de

2008-10-15

Solidification paths of three ternary monotectic alloy systems, Al-Bi-Zn, Al-Sn-Cu and Al-Bi-Cu, are studied using thermodynamic calculations, both for the pertinent phase diagrams and also for specific details concerning the solidification of selected alloy compositions. The coupled composition variation in two different liquids is quantitatively given. Various ternary monotectic four-phase reactions are encountered during solidification, as opposed to the simple binary monotectic, L' {yields} L'' + solid. These intricacies are reflected in the solidification microstructures, as demonstrated for these three aluminum alloy systems, selected in view of their distinctive features. This examination of solidification paths and microstructure formation may be relevant for advanced solidification processing of multicomponent monotectic alloys.

Dilatometric studies on uranium-zirconium-fissium alloy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Banerjee, Aparna; Kulkarni, S.G.; Kulkarni, R.V.; Kaity, Santu

2012-01-01

The knowledge of thermophysical properties of U-Zr alloys are important for modelling fuel behaviour in nuclear reactor. Fissium is an alloy that approximates the equilibrium concentration of the metallic fission product elements left by metallurgical reprocessing. Coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) data is needed to calculate stresses occurring in fuel and cladding with change in temperature. Coefficient of thermal expansion can be utilized to determine the change of alloy density as a function of temperature. In the present investigation, thermophysical properties like coefficient of thermal expansion and density were determined using dilatometer for U-20wt.%Zr-5wt.%Fs alloy prepared by arc melting process. The microstructural investigation was carried out using scanning electron microscope

Photoelectron spectroscopic studies of some transition metals and alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

McLachlan, A.D.

1974-01-01

Photoelectron spectra of polycrystalline samples of Cu, Ag and Au at photon energies of 21.22, 40.81 eV and 1487 eV were measured. The corrected 40.81 eV results were compared to theoretical band structure calculations and monochromatized x-ray photoelectron results. Correlation of hitherto unresolved peaks in the 40.81 eV spectra was observed. Comparison of the relative intensities of the spectral d bands and the theoretical calculations revealed discrepancies which were assigned to matrix element modulation effects in the photoelectron emission process. Experimental measurements and theories of the electronic structure of disordered alloy systems were reviewed. The 21.22 eV and 40.81 eV photoelectron spectra of some AgPd and AgAu alloys were measured. The spectra were compared with previous x-ray photon results, and with theoretical calculations based on the Coherent Potential Approximation (CPA) model of disordered alloy systems. The present results were found to give more clearly defined spectral details, with differences in the comparison reflecting the simplifying assumptions of the CPA calculation. (author)

Defect interactions in Sn1−xGex random alloys

KAUST Repository

Chroneos, Alexander; Bracht, H.; Grimes, R. W.; Jiang, C.; Schwingenschlö gl, Udo

2009-01-01

Sn1−xGex alloys are candidates for buffer layers to match the lattices of III-V or II-VI compounds with Si or Ge for microelectronic or optoelectronic applications. In the present work electronic structure calculations are used to study relative energies of clusters formed between Sn atoms and lattice vacancies in Ge that relate to alloys of low Sn content. We also establish that the special quasirandom structure approach correctly describes the random alloy nature of Sn1−xGex with higher Sn content. In particular, the calculated deviations of the lattice parameters from Vegard’s Law are consistent with experimental results.

Defect interactions in Sn1−xGex random alloys

KAUST Repository

Chroneos, Alexander

2009-06-23

Sn1−xGex alloys are candidates for buffer layers to match the lattices of III-V or II-VI compounds with Si or Ge for microelectronic or optoelectronic applications. In the present work electronic structure calculations are used to study relative energies of clusters formed between Sn atoms and lattice vacancies in Ge that relate to alloys of low Sn content. We also establish that the special quasirandom structure approach correctly describes the random alloy nature of Sn1−xGex with higher Sn content. In particular, the calculated deviations of the lattice parameters from Vegard’s Law are consistent with experimental results.

Estimation of formation heat of rare earth and actinide alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Shubin, A.B.; Yamshchikov, L.F.; Raspopin, S.P.

1986-01-01

A method for forecasting the enthalpy of formation of scandium, yttrium, lanthanum and lanthanides, thorium, uranium and plutonium alloys with a series of fusible metals (Al, Ga, In, Tl, Sn, Pb, Sb, Bi) is proposed. The obtained confidence internal value for the calculated Δ f H 0 values exceeds sufficiently the random error of the experimental determination of the rare metal alloy formation enthalpies. However, taking into account considerable divergences in results of Δ f H 0 determinations performed by different science groups, one may conclude, that such forecasting accuracy may be useful in the course of estimation calculations, especially, for actinide element alloys

Effect of Alloy Elements on Microstructures and Mechanical Properties in Al-Mg-Si Alloys

Science.gov (United States)

Kato, Yoshikazu; Hisayuki, Koji; Sakaguchi, Masashi; Higashi, Kenji

Microstructures and mechanical properties in the modified Al-Mg-Si alloys with variation in the alloy elements and their contents were investigated to enhance higher strength and ductility. Optimizing both the alloy element design and the industrial processes including heat-treatments and extrusion technology was carried out along the recent suggestion from the first principles calculation. The investigation concluded that the addition of Fe and/or Cu could recovery their lost ductility, furthermore increase their tensile strength up to 420 MPa at high elongation of 24 % after T6 condition for Al-0.8mass%Mg-1.0mass%Si-0.8mass%Cu-0.5mass%Fe alloy with excess Si content. The excellent combination between strength and ductility could be obtained by improvement to the grain boundary embitterment caused by grain boundary segregation of Si as a result from the interaction of Si with Cu or Fe with optimizing the amount of Cu and Fe contents.

CALPHAD simulation of the Mg–(Mn, Zr)–Fe system and experimental comparison with as-cast alloy microstructures as relevant to impurity driven corrosion of Mg-alloys

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Gandel, D.S., E-mail: darren.gandel@monash.edu [CAST Cooperative Research Centre (Australia); Department of Materials Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800 (Australia); Easton, M.A. [CAST Cooperative Research Centre (Australia); Department of Materials Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800 (Australia); Gibson, M.A. [CAST Cooperative Research Centre (Australia); CSIRO Process Science and Engineering, Clayton, VIC 3168 (Australia); Birbilis, N. [CAST Cooperative Research Centre (Australia); Department of Materials Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800 (Australia)

2014-02-14

Four Mg alloys with variations in the ratio of Mn, Zr and Fe additions were cast and their microstructures analysed via electron microscopy. Thermodynamic calculations of the expected phases using PANDAT were evaluated with actual as-cast microstructures. Some of the as-cast alloys did appear to form phases similar to those anticipated from the PANDAT calculations. Furthermore, there was a new Mn–Fe particle interaction observed that was not predicted, but which is posited to be responsible for the increase in corrosion resistance among Mn containing Mg alloys with Fe impurities. The experimental work herein has been shown to be invaluable in the understanding of this practically important system with sparingly soluble Fe and its potential influence on the corrosion of Mg alloys. - Highlights: • Alloy microstructure of the Mg-(Mn,Zr, Fe) system was analysed and reported. • CALPHAD analysis was used in conjunction with traditional SEM analysis techniques in this study. • A proposed Mn–Fe interaction within Mg has been observed for the first time. • Experimental validation of calculated phases is required to understand the effect of Mn and Zr on Mg.

Complex precipitation pathways in multicomponent alloys

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Clouet, Emmanuel; Nastar, Maylise [Service de Recherches de Metallurgie Physique, CEA/Saclay, 91191 Gif-sur-Yvette (France); Lae, Ludovic; Deschamps, Alexis [LTPCM/ENSEEG, UMR CNRS 5614, Domaine Universitaire, BP 75, 38402 St Martin d' Heres (France); Epicier, Thierry [Groupe d' Etudes de Metallurgie Physique et de Physique des Materiaux, UMR CNRS 5510, INSA, 69621 Villeurbanne (France); Lefebvre, Williams [Groupe de Physique des Materiaux, UMR CNRS 6634, Universite de Rouen, 76801 Saint Etienne du Rouvray (France)

2006-07-01

One usual way to strengthen a metal is to add alloying elements and to control the size and the density of the precipitates obtained. However, precipitation in multicomponent alloys can take complex pathways depending on the relative diffusivity of solute atoms and on the relative driving forces involved. In Al - Zr - Sc alloys, atomic simulations based on first-principle calculations combined with various complementary experimental approaches working at different scales reveal a strongly inhomogeneous structure of the precipitates: owing to the much faster diffusivity of Sc compared with Zr in the solid solution, and to the absence of Zr and Sc diffusion inside the precipitates, the precipitate core is mostly Sc-rich, whereas the external shell is Zr-rich. This explains previous observations of an enhanced nucleation rate in Al - Zr - Sc alloys compared with binary Al - Sc alloys, along with much higher resistance to Ostwald ripening, two features of the utmost importance in the field of light high-strength materials. (authors)

Investigations of carbon diffusion and carbide formation in nickel-based alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Schulten, R.; Bongartz, K.; Quadakkers, W.J.; Schuster, H.; Nickel, H.

1989-11-01

The present thesis describes the carburization behaviour of nickel based alloys in heavily carburizing environments. The mechanisms of carbon diffusion and carbide precipitation in NiCr alloys with and without ternary additions of iron, cobalt or molybdenum have been investigated. Using the results of carburization experiments, a mathematical model which describes carbon diffusion and carbide formation, was developed. The simulation of the carburization process was carried out by an iterative calculation of the local thermodynamic equilibrium in the alloy. An accurate description of the carbon profiles as a function of time became possible by using a finite-difference calculation. (orig.) [de

Effect of Dynamic Composite Refinement and Modification on Microstructure of A356 Aluminum Alloy

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

WANG Zheng-jun

2017-01-01

Full Text Available To make up for the inadequacy of Sr modification,Al-5Ti-1B-1RE master alloy refiner was prepared,then were used together with Al-10Sr master alloy for dynamic composite refinement and modification of A356 alloy.The A356 alloy microstructure of modification was studied and compared with the theoretical calculating results.The results show that the melt is fiercely stirred and vibrated by the JJ-1 laboratory electric stirrer;the refining effect of α-Al phase is excellent;the coarse and needle-like eutectic Si phase transforms into tiny,widely dispersed spherical particles and well-distributed at the grain boundaries.And mechanical property of the A356 alloy increases obviously.The grain size control study results are consistent with Johnson-Mehl equation theory.At the same time,the contents of gases of the A356 alloy are significantly reduced,which can not be achieved by Sr alone.Quantitative calculating results of degassing mechanism are consistent with the approximate calculating equations of thermodynamics and Stokes Law.

Effect of Silicon in U-10Mo Alloy

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Kautz, Elizabeth J. [Pacific Northwest National Lab. (PNNL), Richland, WA (United States); Devaraj, Arun [Pacific Northwest National Lab. (PNNL), Richland, WA (United States); Kovarik, Libor [Pacific Northwest National Lab. (PNNL), Richland, WA (United States); Lavender, Curt A. [Pacific Northwest National Lab. (PNNL), Richland, WA (United States); Joshi, Vineet V. [Pacific Northwest National Lab. (PNNL), Richland, WA (United States)

2017-08-31

This document details a method for evaluating the effect of silicon impurity content on U-10Mo alloys. Silicon concentration in U-10Mo alloys has been shown to impact the following: volume fraction of precipitate phases, effective density of the final alloy, and 235-U enrichment in the gamma-UMo matrix. This report presents a model for calculating these quantities as a function of Silicon concentration, which along with fuel foil characterization data, will serve as a reference for quality control of the U-10Mo final alloy Si content. Additionally, detailed characterization using scanning electron microscope imaging, transmission electron microscope diffraction, and atom probe tomography showed that Silicon impurities present in U-10Mo alloys form a Si-rich precipitate phase.

Atomic-scale properties of Ni-based FCC ternary, and quaternary alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tamm, Artur; Aabloo, Alvo; Klintenberg, Mattias; Stocks, Malcolm; Caro, Alfredo

2015-01-01

The aim of this study is to characterize some atomic-scale properties of Ni-based FCC multicomponent alloys. For this purpose, we use Monte Carlo method combined with density functional theory calculations to study short-range order (SRO), atomic displacements, electronic density of states, and magnetic moments in equimolar ternary NiCrCo, and quaternary NiCrCoFe alloys. According to our study, the salient features for the ternary alloy are a negative SRO parameter between Ni–Cr and a positive between Cr–Cr pairs as well as a weakly magnetic state. For the quaternary alloy we predict negative SRO parameter for Ni–Cr and Ni–Fe pairs and positive for Cr–Cr and Fe–Fe pairs. Atomic displacements for both ternary and quaternary alloys are negligible. In contrast to the ternary, the quaternary alloy shows a complex magnetic structure. The electronic structure of the ternary and quaternary alloys shows differences near the Fermi energy between a random solid solution and the predicted structure with SRO. Despite that, the calculated EXAFS spectra does not show enough contrast to discriminate between random and ordered structures. The predicted SRO has an impact on point-defect energetics, electron–phonon coupling and thermodynamic functions and thus, SRO should not be neglected when studying properties of these two alloys

Model many-body Stoner Hamiltonian for binary FeCr alloys

Science.gov (United States)

Nguyen-Manh, D.; Dudarev, S. L.

2009-09-01

We derive a model tight-binding many-body d -electron Stoner Hamiltonian for FeCr binary alloys and investigate the sensitivity of its mean-field solutions to the choice of hopping integrals and the Stoner exchange parameters. By applying the local charge-neutrality condition within a self-consistent treatment we show that the negative enthalpy-of-mixing anomaly characterizing the alloy in the low chromium concentration limit is due entirely to the presence of the on-site exchange Stoner terms and that the occurrence of this anomaly is not specifically related to the choice of hopping integrals describing conventional chemical bonding between atoms in the alloy. The Bain transformation pathway computed, using the proposed model Hamiltonian, for the Fe15Cr alloy configuration is in excellent agreement with ab initio total-energy calculations. Our investigation also shows how the parameters of a tight-binding many-body model Hamiltonian for a magnetic alloy can be derived from the comparison of its mean-field solutions with other, more accurate, mean-field approximations (e.g., density-functional calculations), hence stimulating the development of large-scale computational algorithms for modeling radiation damage effects in magnetic alloys and steels.

Unfolding and effective bandstructure calculations as discrete real- and reciprocal-space operations

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Boykin, Timothy B., E-mail: boykin@ece.uah.edu [Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, The University of Alabama in Huntsville, Huntsville, AL 35899 (United States); Ajoy, Arvind [School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853 (United States); Ilatikhameneh, Hesameddin; Povolotskyi, Michael; Klimeck, Gerhard [Network for Computational Nanotechnology, School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907 (United States)

2016-06-15

In recent years, alloy electronic structure calculations based on supercell Brillouin zone unfolding have become popular. There are a number of formulations of the method which on the surface might appear different. Here we show that a discrete real-space description, based on discrete Fourier transforms, is fully general. Furthermore, such an approach can more easily show the effects of alloy scattering. We present such a method for treating the random alloy problem. This treatment features straightforward mathematics and a transparent physical interpretation of the calculated effective (i.e., approximate) energy bands.

Chemical interactions and thermodynamic studies in aluminum alloy/molten salt systems

Science.gov (United States)

Narayanan, Ramesh

The recycling of aluminum and aluminum alloys such as Used Beverage Container (UBC) is done under a cover of molten salt flux based on (NaCl-KCl+fluorides). The reactions of aluminum alloys with molten salt fluxes have been investigated. Thermodynamic calculations are performed in the alloy/salt flux systems which allow quantitative predictions of the equilibrium compositions. There is preferential reaction of Mg in Al-Mg alloy with molten salt fluxes, especially those containing fluorides like NaF. An exchange reaction between Al-Mg alloy and molten salt flux has been demonstrated. Mg from the Al-Mg alloy transfers into the salt flux while Na from the salt flux transfers into the metal. Thermodynamic calculations indicated that the amount of Na in metal increases as the Mg content in alloy and/or NaF content in the reacting flux increases. This is an important point because small amounts of Na have a detrimental effect on the mechanical properties of the Al-Mg alloy. The reactions of Al alloys with molten salt fluxes result in the formation of bluish purple colored "streamers". It was established that the streamer is liquid alkali metal (Na and K in the case of NaCl-KCl-NaF systems) dissipating into the melt. The melts in which such streamers were observed are identified. The metal losses occurring due to reactions have been quantified, both by thermodynamic calculations and experimentally. A computer program has been developed to calculate ternary phase diagrams in molten salt systems from the constituting binary phase diagrams, based on a regular solution model. The extent of deviation of the binary systems from regular solution has been quantified. The systems investigated in which good agreement was found between the calculated and experimental phase diagrams included NaF-KF-LiF, NaCl-NaF-NaI and KNOsb3-TINOsb3-LiNOsb3. Furthermore, an insight has been provided on the interrelationship between the regular solution parameters and the topology of the phase

Martensitic Transformation in a β-Type Mg-Sc Alloy

Science.gov (United States)

Ogawa, Yukiko; Ando, Daisuke; Sutou, Yuji; Somekawa, Hidetoshi; Koike, Junichi

2018-03-01

Recently, we found that a Mg-Sc alloy with a bcc (β) phase exhibits superelasticity and a shape memory effect at low temperature. In this work, we examined the stress-induced and thermally induced martensitic transformation of the β-type Mg-Sc alloy and investigated the crystal structure of the thermally induced martensite phase based on in situ X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements. The lattice constants of the martensite phase were calculated to be a = 0.3285 nm, b = 0.5544 nm, and c = 0.5223 nm when we assumed that the martensite phase has an orthorhombic structure (Cmcm). Based on the lattice correspondence between a bcc and an orthorhombic structures such as that in the case of β-Ti shape memory alloys, we estimated the transformation strain of the β Mg-Sc alloy. As a result, the transformation strains along the 001, 011, and 111 directions in the β phase were calculated to be + 5.7, + 8.8, and + 3.3%, respectively.

Martensitic Transformation in a β-Type Mg-Sc Alloy

Science.gov (United States)

Ogawa, Yukiko; Ando, Daisuke; Sutou, Yuji; Somekawa, Hidetoshi; Koike, Junichi

2017-12-01

Recently, we found that a Mg-Sc alloy with a bcc (β) phase exhibits superelasticity and a shape memory effect at low temperature. In this work, we examined the stress-induced and thermally induced martensitic transformation of the β-type Mg-Sc alloy and investigated the crystal structure of the thermally induced martensite phase based on in situ X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements. The lattice constants of the martensite phase were calculated to be a = 0.3285 nm, b = 0.5544 nm, and c = 0.5223 nm when we assumed that the martensite phase has an orthorhombic structure (Cmcm). Based on the lattice correspondence between a bcc and an orthorhombic structures such as that in the case of β-Ti shape memory alloys, we estimated the transformation strain of the β Mg-Sc alloy. As a result, the transformation strains along the 001, 011, and 111 directions in the β phase were calculated to be + 5.7, + 8.8, and + 3.3%, respectively.

Electronic properties of liquid Hg-In alloys : Ab-initio molecular dynamics study

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sharma, Nalini; Ahluwalia, P. K.; Thakur, Anil

2016-01-01

Ab-initio molecular dynamics simulations are performed to study the structural properties of liquid Hg-In alloys. The interatomic interactions are described by ab-initio pseudopotentials given by Troullier and Martins. Three liquid Hg-In alloys (Hg_1_0In_9_0, Hg_3_0In_7_0_,_. Hg_5_0In_5_0, Hg_7_0In_3_0, and Hg_9_0Pb_1_0) at 299 K are considered. The calculated results for liquid Hg (l-Hg) and lead (l-In) are also drawn. Along with the calculated results of considered five liquid alloys of Hg-In alloy. The results obtained from electronic properties namely total density of state and partial density of states help to find the local arrangement of Hg and In atoms and the presence of liquid state in the considered five alloys.

Nucleation of dislocation loops during irradiation in binary FCC alloys with different alloy compositions

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hashimoto, T.; Shigenaka, N.; Fuse, M.

1992-01-01

Dislocation loop nucleation is analyzed using a rate theory based model for face-centered cubic (fcc) binary alloys containing A- and B-atoms. In order to calculate the nucleation process in concentrated alloys, the model considers three types of interstitial dumbbells composed of A- and B-atoms, AA-, BB-, and AB-type dumbbells. Conversions between these interstitial dumbbells are newly introduced in the formulation in consideration of dumbbell configurations and movements. The model also includes reactions, such as point defect production by irradiation, mutual recombination of an interstitial and a vacancy, and dislocation loop nucleation and growth. Parameter values are chosen based on the atom size of the alloy component elements, and dislocation loop nucleation kinetics are investigated while varying alloy compositions. Two different types of kinetics are obtained in accordance with the dominant loop nucleus type. The migration energy difference of AA- and BB-type interstitial dumbbells is important in the determination of the dominant loop nucleus type. The present model predicts that the dislocation loop concentration decrease with increasing under sized atoms content, but defect production rate and temperature dependences of loop concentration are insensitive to alloy compositions. (author)

First-principles study on the structural, electronic and magnetic properties of the Ti{sub 2}VZ (Z = Si, Ge, Sn) full-Heusler compounds

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Qi, Santao; Shen, Jiang [Institute for Applied Physics, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083 (China); Zhang, Chuan-Hui, E-mail: zhangch@ustb.edu.cn [National Center for Materials Service Safety, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083 (China)

2015-08-15

In the present work, we have investigated the structural, electronic and magnetic properties of Ti{sub 2}VZ (Z = Si, Ge, Sn) alloys with Hg{sub 2}CuTi-type structure in the framework of density functional theory with generalized gradient approximation (GGA). The calculated results show that Ti{sub 2}VSi and Ti{sub 2}VGe alloys belong to half-metallic compounds with a perfect 100% spin polarization at the Fermi level while Ti{sub 2}VSn alloy is just a conventional ferrimagnetism compound. And the total magnetic moment of Ti{sub 2}VSi and Ti{sub 2}VGe obey the Slater–Pauling (SP) rule. In a moderate variation range of lattice distortion, Ti{sub 2}VSi and Ti{sub 2}VGe remain half-metallicity. We expect that our calculated results may trigger Ti{sub 2}VZ (Z = Si, Ge, Sn) applying in the future spintronics field. - Highlights: • Structural properties of Ti{sub 2}VZ (Z = Si, Ge, Sn) have been achieved by ab initio. • The calculations proved Ti{sub 2}VSi and Ti{sub 2}VGe to be half-metallic compounds. • The total magnetic moments of Ti{sub 2}VSi and Ti{sub 2}VGe followed the SP rule M{sub t} = Z{sub t} − 18. • Their magnetic and half-metallic properties changed with lattice distortion.

Evaluation and comparison of castability between an indigenous and imported Ni-Cr alloy.

Science.gov (United States)

Ramesh, Ganesh; Padmanabhan, T V; Ariga, Padma; Subramanian, R

2011-01-01

Since 1907 casting restorations have been in use in dentistry. Numerous companies have been manufacturing and marketing base metal alloys. Gold was a major component of casting alloys. But alloys with less than 65% gold tarnished easily and the increase in cost of gold post-1970s lead to the revival of base metal alloys such as nickel-chromium and cobalt-chromium alloys which were in use since 1930s. This study was conducted to evaluate and compare the castability between an indigenous alloy and an imported alloy, as imported base metal alloys are considered to be expensive for fabrication of crowns and bridges. This study was conducted to evaluate and compare the castability (for the accurate fabrication of crowns and bridges) between an indigenous base metal alloy-Non-ferrous Materials Technology Development Centre (NFTDC), Hyderabad (Alloy A) -and an imported base metal alloys (Alloy B). Castability measurement was obtained by counting the number of completely formed line segments surrounding the 81 squares in the pattern and later calculating the percentage values. The percentage obtained was taken as the castability value for a particular base metal alloy. The percentage of castability was determined by counting only the number of completely cast segments in a perfect casting (81 × 2 = 162), and then multiplying the resulting fraction by 100 to give the percentage completeness. The Student t-test was used. When the castability of alloys A and B was compared, the calculated value was less than the tabular value (1.171 indigenous alloy is on par with the imported alloy.

Electrical Resistance Alloys and Low-Expansion Alloys

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Kjer, Torben

1996-01-01

The article gives an overview of electrical resistance alloys and alloys with low thermal expansion. The electrical resistance alloys comprise resistance alloys, heating alloys and thermostat alloys. The low expansion alloys comprise alloys with very low expansion coefficients, alloys with very low...... thermoelastic coefficients and age hardenable low expansion alloys....

Oxidation performance of V-Cr-Ti alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Natesan, K.; Uz, M.

2000-01-01

Vanadium-base alloys are being considered as candidates for the first wall in advanced V-Li blanket concepts in fusion reactor systems. However, a primary deterrent to the use of these alloys at elevated temperatures is their relatively high affinity for interstitial impurities, i.e., O, N, H, and C. The authors conducted a systematic study to determine the effects of time, temperature, and oxygen partial pressure (pO 2 ) in the exposure environment on O uptake, scaling kinetics, and scale microstructure in V-(4--5) wt.% Cr-(4--5) wt.% Ti alloys. Oxidation experiments were conducted on the alloys at pO 2 in the range of 5 x 10 -6 -760 torr (6.6 x 10 -4 -1 x 10 5 Pa) at several temperatures in the range of 350--700 C. Models that describe the oxidation kinetics, oxide type and thickness, alloy grain size, and depth of O diffusion in the substrate of the two alloys were determined and compared. Weight change data were correlated with time by a parabolic relationship. The parabolic rate constant was calculated for various exposure conditions and the temperature dependence of the constant was described by an Arrhenius relationship. The results showed that the activation energy for the oxidation process is fairly constant at pO 2 levels in the range of 5 x 10 -6 -0.1 torr. The activation energy calculated from data obtained in the air tests was significantly lower, whereas that obtained in pure-O tests (at 760 torr) was substantially higher than the energy obtained under low-pO 2 conditions. The oxide VO 2 was the predominant phase that formed in both alloys when exposed to pO 2 levels of 6.6 x 10 -4 to 0.1 torr. V 2 O 5 was the primary phase in specimens exposed to air and to pure O 2 at 760 torr. The implications of the increased O concentration are increased strength and decreased ductility of the alloy. However, the strength of the alloy was not a strong function of the O concentration of the alloy, but an increase in O concentration did cause a substantial decrease

Using X-Ray portable fluorescence for alloy contents measurement of steel pipe and optimization of Flow Accelerated Corrosion kinetic calculation with BRT-CICEROTM

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Trevin, Stephane; Moutrille, Marie-Pierre; Qiu, Gonghao; Miller, Cecile; Mellin, Nicolas

2012-09-01

EDF has developed during these 15 last years a software called BRT-CICERO TM for the surveillance of the secondary piping system of its Pressurized Water Reactors (PWRs). This software enables the operator to calculate the FAC wear rates taking into account all the influencing parameters such as: pipe isometrics, chromium content of the steel, chemical conditioning and operating parameters of the secondary circuit (temperature, pressure, etc.). This is a major tool for the operators to organize the maintenance and to plan the inspections. In the framework of the French pressure vessel law issued on March 15, 2000, the software BRT-CICERO TM has been recognized by the French authority for the FAC surveillance on the secondary pressure piping lines of the EDF 58 NPPs. It takes advantage of the experience feedback of EDF's fleet, of the R and D improvements (especially from the laboratory tests conducted on EDF's CIROCO loop) and is frequently updated. Kinetics calculations made with BRT-CICERO TM are highly dependent of chromium, copper and molybdenum contents of steel. These values are measured on site by X-ray portable fluorescence. EDF elaborated a measurement procedure with a validation process and verification of the measurement devices using certified blocks standard. This procedure enables EDF and service provider companies to measure more than 6 thousand components per year. These values are input in BRT-CICERO TM and the flow accelerated corrosion kinetic is calculated with a higher accuracy than before alloy contents measurement. The next version of BRT-CICERO will take into account chromium, copper and molybdenum contents. The actual version is using only chromium contents. This paper describes the X-Ray fluorescence and the procedure used at EDF. The advantage and drawbacks of this technique are discussed. According to research and development studies, the future algorithm for FAC calculation with these 3 alloys contents is described. Because of

Experimental investigation and thermodynamic calculation of the Mg-Sr-Zr system

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zhou, Hua; Chen, Chong; Du, Yong; Central South Univ., Hunan; Gong, Haoran

2016-01-01

Both experimental investigation and thermodynamic calculation were performed for the Mg-Sr-Zr system. Four decisive alloys were firstly selected and prepared using a powder metallurgy method to measure the isothermal section at 400 C via a combination of X-ray diffraction and electron probe microanalysis. No ternary compound has been observed for this ternary system. Four three-phase regions, (Mg) + (αZr) + Mg 17 Sr 2 , Mg 17 Sr 2 + (αZr) + Mg 38 Sr 9 , Mg 38 Sr 9 + (αZr) + Mg 23 Sr 6 , and Mg 23 Sr 6 + (αZr) + Mg 2 Sr, have been identified at 400 C. No appreciable ternary solubility has been detected in the binary Mg-Sr compounds. Phase transition temperatures of the Mg-Sr-Zr alloys were measured by means of differential scanning calorimetry. The thermodynamic calculations match well with the experimental data in the present work, indicating that no ternary thermodynamic parameters are needed for the thermodynamic description of this ternary system. In order to verify the reliability of the current thermodynamic calculations of the Mg-Sr-Zr system, eight as-cast alloys in the Mg-rich corner were also prepared. The calculated liquidus projection is consistent with the observed primary phase regions. The present thermodynamic calculations are reliable and can be used in the development of Mg alloys.

Visualization of steam bubbles with evaporation in molten alloy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nishi, Yoshihisa; Furuya, Masahiro; Kinoshita, Izumi; Takenaka, Nobuyuki; Matsubayashi, Masahito

1997-01-01

An innovative Steam Generator concept of Fast Breeder Reactors by using liquid-liquid direct contact heat transfer has been developed. In this concept, the SG shell is filled with a molten alloy heated by primary sodium. Water is fed into the high temperature molten alloy, and evaporates by direct contact heating. In order to obtain the fundamental information to discuss the heat transfer mechanisms of the direct contact between the water and the molten alloy, this phenomenon was visualized by neutron radiography. JRR-3M radiography in Japan Atomic Energy Research Institute was used. Followings are main results. (1) The bubbles with evaporation are risen with vigorous form changing, coalescence and break-up. Because of these vigorous evaporation, this system have the high heat transfer performance. (2) The rising velocities and volumes of bubbles are calculated from pixcel values of images. The velocities of the bubbles with evaporation are about 60 cm/s, which is larger than that of inert gas bubbles in molten alloy (20-40 cm/s). (3) The required heat transfer length of evaporation is calculated from pixcel values of images. The relation between heat transfer length and superheat temperature, obtained through the heat transfer test, is conformed by this calculation. (author)

Magnetic properties of Ni-Mn-Ga-Co-Cu tetragonal martensites exhibiting magnetic shape memory effect

Czech Academy of Sciences Publication Activity Database

Rameš, Michal; Heczko, Oleg; Sozinov, A.; Ullakko, K.; Straka, Ladislav

2018-01-01

Roč. 142, Jan (2018), s. 61-65 ISSN 1359-6462 R&D Projects: GA ČR GA16-00043S Institutional support: RVO:68378271 Keywords : ferromagnetic shape memory alloy * magnetic anisotropy * martensitic phase transformation * Heusler phases * twinning Subject RIV: BM - Solid Matter Physics ; Magnetism OBOR OECD: Condensed matter physics (including formerly solid state physics, supercond.) Impact factor: 3.747, year: 2016

Mössbauer studies of hyperfine fields in disordered Fe

Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

Heusler-like alloy Fe2CrAl was prepared and studied. Structure determination was done by X-ray. The structure was found to conform to the B2 type. Magnetic hyperfine fields in this sample were studied by the Mössbauer effect. The Mössbauer spectra were recorded over a range of temperature from 40 to 296 K. The ...

Termination layer compensated tunnelling magnetoresistance in ferrimagnetic Heusler compounds with high perpendicular magnetic anisotropy.

Science.gov (United States)

Jeong, Jaewoo; Ferrante, Yari; Faleev, Sergey V; Samant, Mahesh G; Felser, Claudia; Parkin, Stuart S P

2016-01-18

Although high-tunnelling spin polarization has been observed in soft, ferromagnetic, and predicted for hard, ferrimagnetic Heusler materials, there has been no experimental observation to date of high-tunnelling magnetoresistance in the latter. Here we report the preparation of highly textured, polycrystalline Mn3Ge films on amorphous substrates, with very high magnetic anisotropy fields exceeding 7 T, making them technologically relevant. However, the small and negative tunnelling magnetoresistance that we find is attributed to predominant tunnelling from the lower moment Mn-Ge termination layers that are oppositely magnetized to the higher moment Mn-Mn layers. The net spin polarization of the current reflects the different proportions of the two distinct termination layers and their associated tunnelling matrix elements that result from inevitable atomic scale roughness. We show that by engineering the spin polarization of the two termination layers to be of the same sign, even though these layers are oppositely magnetized, high-tunnelling magnetoresistance is possible.

Heat of solution and site energies of hydrogen in disordered transition-metal alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Brouwer, R.C.; Griessen, R.

1989-01-01

Site energies, long-range effective hydrogen-hydrogen interactions, and the enthalpy of solution in transition-metal alloys are calculated by means of an embedded-cluster model. The energy of a hydrogen atom is assumed to be predominantly determined by the first shell of neighboring metal atoms. The semiempirical local band-structure model is used to calculate the energy of the hydrogen atoms in the cluster, taking into account local deviations from the average lattice constant. The increase in the solubility limit and the weak dependence of the enthalpy of solution on hydrogen concentration in disordered alloys are discussed. Calculated site energies and enthalpies of solution in the alloys are compared with experimental data, and good agreement is found. Due to the strong interactions with the nearest-neighbor metal atoms, hydrogen atoms can be used to determine local lattice separations and the extent of short-range order in ''disordered'' alloys

Hypervelocity impact cratering calculations

Science.gov (United States)

Maxwell, D. E.; Moises, H.

1971-01-01