Existence of exotic magnetic phases along with exchange bias and memory effect in frustrated beta-Mn Heusler alloy

Abstract

Generally, Co-based Heusler alloys are the center of interest because of their properties such as high Curie temperature, spin polarization, and high value of exchange bias. Herein, we have used the macroscopic technique to probe the low-temperature exotic properties of M1.5Co0.5FeAl. First, we have analyzed the dc magnetization data, and it unfolds the presence of a glassy phase at 33 K. The cluster spin glass phase is authenticated by measuring ac susceptibility. Furthermore, using empirical models like power law and Vogel–Fulcher fitting, the relaxation time for the spin is of the order of τ ∼ 10−9 s, confirming the presence of a cluster spin glass in Mn1.5Co0.5FeAl below an irreversible temperature. The H–T phase space diagram ensures that it follows the Ising spin model. Furthermore, the glassy phase of the system is confirmed by magnetic relaxation, memory effect, and the presence of an exchange bias instead of a minor loop below spin-freezing temperature (Tf ∼ 33 K).