Probing 3d-4f exchange interactions by high-field magnetization measurements

Abstract

In a 4f-3d ferrimagnet the molecular field (a net value expressing the relevant exchange interactions) can be determined from high-field magnetization measurements. If the applied field is high enough, it breaks the ferri- magnetic ground state and drives the system towards ferromagnetic order via non-collinear intermediate phases. Magnetization curves of Er2Fe 17 singe crystal were measured along the [100] crystallographic direction in magnetic fields up to 50 T. An unfixed sample, free to rotate, was measured as well. The magnetization measured along the easy magnetization direction shows jumps at 37.5 and 44 T. The first jump was used for the determination of the molecular field (66.4 T). This agrees with the data for the unfixed sample where a kink in the magneti- zation at 33.5 T yields a molecular field of 65.7 T. The obtained values are in a good agreement with literature data.