Magnetism in R3Co8Sn4 compounds (R=Pr, Nd, Sm)

Description

The magnetic properties of the R3CoxSn4 phases (R = Pr, Nd, Sm) were studied by AC and DC magnetic techniques. The three compounds order magnetically at 17, 37 and 83 K, respectively. Pr3Co8Sn4 and Nd3Co8Sn4 exhibit a spin reorientation transition under an applied field of 4 T (Pr) and 2 T (Nd), detected also by DC thermomagnetic measurements. The anomalous hysteresis loop of the Sm-phase is discussed in terms of a complete lack in the magnetic coupling of the two ferromagnetic phases: Sm3Co8Sn4 and free Co. Dependence of the ferromagnetic transition temperature on Co-Co distances is discussed.

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