Abstract

The first-order ferrimagnet ErCo2 attracts interest not only because of metamagnetism and magnetocaloric effect just above TC ≈ 32–34 K but also because it is closely related with the itinerant metamagnetism of YCo2 and LuCo2. We study the electronic structure of single crystals with hard X-ray photoemission spectroscopy (HAXPES). Magnetization measurements reconfirm the first-order magnetic transition, metamagnetism, and strong magnetic anisotropy. Calculated ErCo2 band structures of the ferrimagnetic and paramagnetic phases are presented in detail. In the ferrimagnetic state, the density of states just below EF is smaller than in the paramagnetic phase. Valence band spectra in the paramagnetic state show strong polarization dependence. Furthermore, the change across the first-order ferrimagnetic transition in the valence band electronic structures is observed. These experimental data are well described by the band structure calculation incorporated with the polarization dependent cross-sections of orbitals. We further discuss possible effects of electron correlation and spin fluctuation.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.