On the ferromagnetism of AuMnSn

The ferromagnetic ordering of the Heusler-related alloy AuMnSn has been ver ified by powder neutron diffraction. The cubic AlLiSi-type crystal structur e of AuMnSn [a=634.12(11) pm at 298 K, Au in 4c, Mn in 4b, Sn in 4a of F43m ] has been confirmed. Contrary to the indications from the preceding single -crystal X-ray diffraction study of AuMnSn the powder neutron diffraction d ata gave no evidence for intermixing of Mn and Sn on the 4b and 4a sites. T he ordered magnetic moments are confined to the Mn atoms and their size at 298 K is mu(F,Mn)=3.62(7) mu(B). (C) 1999 Published by Elsevier Science S.A . All rights reserved.