Phase separation and magnetic properties of half-metal-type Co_(2)Cr_(1-x)Fe_(x)Al alloys

摘要

The phase stability and magnetic properties of the half-metal-type Co_(2)Cr_(1-x)Fe_(x)Al alloy system were investigated. It was found that the occurrence of two-phase separation is unavoidable in a concentration range of less than x=0.4, leading to deviation of the saturation magnetic moments from the generalized Slater-Pauling line. The L2_(1)-type phase becomes stable in a concentration range of more than x=0.7, where no half-metallic behaviors are present. Consequently, it is concluded that the most favorable concentration for applications to spintronic devices is located around x=0.4 in Co_(2)Cr_(1-x)Fe_(x)Al alloys having the B2-type phase.