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

Abstract

Co 2 Mn 1 − x Fe x Si 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 neighboring shells providing a unique tool to verify the random distribution of Mn and Fe in Co2Mn1−xFexSi. Exemplarily, the half-metallic quaternary Heusler alloy Co2Mn0.5Fe0.5Si was investigated by means of NMR. The Mn55 NMR measurements unambiguously demonstrate the random distribution of Mn and Fe on the 4b Wyckoff position in Co2Mn0.5Fe0.5Si.