Mn3+xSn has a high neutron polarization efficiency for its (1 0 0) and
(1 1 0) reflections, thus suggesting a high potential for use as a no
n-ferromagnetic polarizing monochromator. In the present work, the fli
pping ratio for these reflections of Mn,,,Sn has been measured by vary
ing the Mn concentration. A flipping ratio larger than that of Cu2MnAl
(1 1 1) has been observed for the (1 0 0) reflection of Mn3.2Sn and Mn
3.4Sn crystals. The optimal flipping ratio of all these has been obser
ved for the (1 0 0) reflection of a quenched crystal of Mn3.2Sn. The c
oncentration dependence of the flipping ratio suggests that the excess
Mn atoms occupying an Sn site are paramagnetic and that the spin-flip
scattering from these Mn atoms reduces the flipping ratio with the in
crease of Mn concentration. Hence, the flipping ratio is dependent upo
n Mn concentration and heat treatments. (C) 1998 Published by Elsevier
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