Effect of Mn substitution on the volume and magnetic properties of Er2Fe17

Abstract

The effects of Mn substitution on the magnetic properties of Er2Fe17−xMnx compounds have been investigated by different experimental techniques. An unusual composition dependence of the unit cell volume at room temperature occurs due to a strong magnetovolume effect, which has been confirmed by high temperature linear thermal expansion measurements. From magnetization measurements the composition dependence of the spontaneous magnetization of the 3d-sublattice magnetic moment and of the Curie temperature has been determined. Spin reorientation has been detected for compounds with 3⩽x⩽5.5, as well as remarkable magnetic history effects.