Synthesis and characterization of arc deposited magnetic (Cr,Mn)₂AlC MAX phase films

Abstract

Abstract (Cr 1– x Mn x ) 2 AlC MAX phase thin films were synthesized by cathodic arc deposition. Scanning transmission electron microscopy including local energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy analysis of the as‐deposited films reveals a Mn incorporation of as much as 10 at% in the structure, corresponding to x = 0.2. Magnetic properties were characterized with vibrating sample magnetometry, revealing a magnetic response up to at least room temperature. We thus verify previous theoretical predictions of an antiferromagnetic or ferromagnetic ground state for Cr 2 AlC upon alloying with Mn. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)