Effect of Isothermal Ageing on Structural and Magnetic Properties of Ni47Mn40Sn13 Ferromagnetic Shape Memory Alloy

Abstract

In this investigation, Ni47Mn40Sn13 ferromagnetic shape memory alloy was prepared by mechanical alloying. The metal powders were ball milled in argon atmosphere for 20 hours. X-ray diffraction pattern confirmed formation of crystalline structure of Heusler alloy. As-milled powder samples were sealed in quartz tubes under high vacuum and subjected to heat treatments at 950°C for different time durations. Then, the effect of isothermal ageing on structural, magnetic and electrical properties of samples was investigated. Results of electrical resistance displayed a metal-like behavior around martensitic transformation. The results showed that 16 hours of annealing was the optimal time for producing this alloy which could be an appropriate candidate for magnetic refrigerant.

Keywords

• Ferromagnetic shape memory alloy
• Mechanical alloying
• Annealing effect