Magnetic Properties of Sm2Fe17N2 and Y2Fe17N2

The crystallographic and magnetic properties of Sm2Fe17N2 and Y2Fe17N2 have been investigated by using x-ray diffraction techniques and magnetic measurements. The effects of the interstitial nitrogen atoms on the Fe-Fe and R-Fe exchange interactions, iron 3d band structure and magnetocrystalline anisotropy induced by crystal field interactions in these nitride compounds are discussed.