Intrinsic magnetic properties of (Nd1-xSmx)Fe11Ti

Abstract A series of (Nd1-xSmx)Fe11Ti alloys with the ThMn12 crystal structure have been fabricated and characterized in order to promote a strong uniaxial anisotropy in NdFe11Ti without the need of nitrogenation. The compounds show small changes in the lattice parameters and cell volume, as well as Curie temperature and spontaneous magnetization. The anisotropy field, however, rapidly increases with the incorporation of Sm and overcomes the effect of nitrogenation, reaching values > 4 T for a 30% Sm content. Mossbauer spectroscopy indicates that the quadrupole splitting is correlated with the magnetic anisotropy. These alloys are good candidates for permanent magnets, provided the correct microstructure is developed to increase coercivity.