Structure and magnetic properties of SmCo5-xCux alloys

The magnetic properties of polycrystalline SmCo5-xCux (x = 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 4) samples were studied in the as-cast state as well as after annealing. The Curie temperature decreases whereas the lattice constant increases wit h increasing Cu content. The hysteresis loop was measured between 10 and 90 0 K using a pulsed-field system. The coercivity field shows strong time dep endence. The temperature dependence of the coercivity and the time dependen ce are analysed using common models for the magnetic aftereffect. The resul ts strongly support the major effect of the number of Cu atoms acting as lo cal defects on the concentration, time and temperature dependence of the co ercivity. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science S.A. All rights reserved.