Abstract
The magnetic phase diagram of the superconductor ErNi 2B 2C ( T c=11 K and T N=6 K) has been studied by neutron diffraction as a function of temperature and magnetic field applied along the symmetry directions [0 1 0], [1 1 0] and [0 0 1] of the tetragonal crystal structure. A series of commensurate magnetic structures, consistent with a transversely polarized spin–density wave with modulation vectors Q=n/m a ∗(0.55⩽n/m<0.60) and the spins along b ∗ , have been observed. The experimental data are compared with the results of a mean-field model that has been established from an analysis of bulk magnetization and zero-field neutron diffraction data. The model accounts for most of the observed features but fails to explain the occurrence of a small component Q δ ≈−0.005 b ∗ observed close to H c2 when the field is applied along [1 1 0].
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
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.