X-ray investigation of the R-Fe-Sn ternary systems (R-Y, Gd)

Partial isothermal sections of the phase diagram of the Y–Fe–Sn system (870 K and 50 at.% Sn) and the Gd–Fe–Sn system (870 K and 55 at.% Sn) were determined. The existence of 1:6:6 ternary intermetallic compounds, which crystallize with either hexagonal or orthorhombic structure types was confirmed. A ternary solid solution of insertion type was found on the base of the YSn2 phase. For the Gd–Fe–Sn system, a similar solid solution was confirmed to take place. The limits of both solid solutions were estimated with a maximum iron solubility of about 7 and 4.5 at.% for the Y and the Gd compounds, respectively.