Synthesis, Microstructure and Magnetic Properties of Intermetallic Compounds

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue will focus on developments for synthesis, and correlation between microstructure and magnetic properties of intermetallic compounds. More than 10 years ago, a top–down and/or bottom–up approach for the production of nanocomposite magnets was commenced, which is still being developed today. As a first step to this approach, nanopowders composed of fine particles and/or flakes are synthesized via ball-milling (BM) mainly through the surfactant-assisted ball-milling (SABM) method. The difference between conventional BM and SABM is generally based on the improvement of milling efficiency and the prevention of cold welding during nanostructurization, leading to the production of small-sized particles. The aim of such an approach is to control the applicable magnetic properties, which is dependent on several parameters, e.g., the grinding atmosphere, the grinding tool, ball-to-powder ratio, and type of milling media. The magnetic properties of R–T bulk intermetallics enhanced by mechanical grinding often lead to the formation of new properties, such as deformation of hysteresis loop, similarly to so-called exchange spring magnets. Consequently, the production of nanoparticles via ball-milling may have a significant impact on the development of anisotropic nanocomposite magnets having enhanced magnetic parameters.

The issue is not limited to rare-earth-based nanomaterials but invites a wide range of research from synthesis and characterization to potential applications on various intermetallics, including R–T compounds, e.g., Laves phases and nanocrystalline RT₅ hard magnets, aluminides, silicides, Mg-based compounds, Heusler alloys, multiphase and composite alloys, and magnetocaloric and thermoelectric materials.

I would like to invite you to submit a manuscript for this Special Issue. Full articles, short communications, and review papers containing experimental as well as theoretical studies are welcome.

Dr. Anna Bajorek
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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