ISSN:
1089-7550
Source:
AIP Digital Archive
Topics:
Physics
Notes:
Magnetization processes in Alnico alloys depend on details of the microstructure on a very fine scale. In this paper, we report the results of studies carried out in more detail and at higher resolution than any previous study. Field ion microscopy (FIM) and atom probe microanalysis (AP) were used for microstructure studies, and high-voltage electron microscopy (HVEM) for studies of both the microstructure and magnetization processes. The composition of the two phases was studied with the new VG Scientific FIM100 AP recently installed in Oxford. Its high mass resolution and vacuum of 10−11 mbar have enabled the composition of the two phases to be accurately determined. The results differ significantly from another recent determination. Information has also been obtained on the ordering of both phases, their interconnectivity and the nature of the interfaces between them. Both phases were found to be partially ordered. In Alnico 5, both isolated and interconnected particles were found. The HVEM has been used to study the microstructure over larger areas, and to study the domain structure. In Alnico 7, particles of the strongly magnetic phase appeared to be more isolated than in Alnico 5, but this result is still to be confirmed by AP. It has also been possible to carry out in situ magnetization studies in the HVEM on specimens heat treated to reduce the coercivity. In Alnico 5, domain wall motion has been observed. In Alnico 7, domains have been observed for the first time. A new model for the coercivity is proposed in the light of these results, which agrees well with both the present results and those of other workers. Studies continuing at present should enable the differences between the magnetic properties of Alnico 5 and Alnico 7 to be explained.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.334654
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