The development of highly magnetostrictive rare earth-iron alloys

Abstract

This paper reviews recent developments in highly magnetostrictive terbium-dysprosium-iron alloys. This includes discussion of domain structure, the magnetization process, microstructure, sample preparation, magnetostriction, effects of different chemical compositions on magnetic properties of the alloys, and possible applications of these materials. It has been found over recent years that there has been a steady improvement in material properties, both in terms of increased strain amplitude and reduction in variability from sample to sample. The material is now finding applications in magnetostrictive transducers, actuators and adaptive vibration control systems.