Crystal distortion and magnetic structure of gamma-Mn(Au) alloys

gamma-Mn alloys containing Au have been examined by magnetic measurements a nd X-ray and neutron diffraction experiments. The 9 at% Au alloy has a face centered orthorhombic lattice with a = 3.853, b = 3.794 and c = 3.731 Angs trom at 11 K, and shows a non-collinear antiferromagnetic structure with 4 sublattices; the three-axis components of the magnetic moments are as follo ws: mu(a) = 0, mu(b) = 1.10 and mu(c) = 1.91 mu(B). A revised phase diagram for gamma-Mn(Au) alloy system with 8-16 at% Au is proposed. (C) 1999 Elsev ier Science B.V. All rights reserved.