We utilize density functional theory (DFT) to conduct a comprehensive theoretical investigation of the quaternary RhMnCrZ (Z = Si, Ge) Heusler alloys. Our study focuse on analyzing the stability, electronic structure, magnetism, exchange interaction, and Curie temperature of these alloys. The stability of the alloys is verified by calculating and analyzing the formation energy, phonon spectrum, elastic constants, and melting temperature. The calculation results show that the alloys are natural half-metallic ferromagnets with lattice constants of 5.868 Å for RhMnCrSi and 5.980 Å for RhMnCrGe. Meanwhile, the effects of compression and expansion stress on the half-metallic property are simulated from a practical perspective. The magnetic calculation of the alloys shows an integer magnetic moment and adheres to the Slater-Pauling rule, which states that Mt=Zt-24. Based on crystal field theory, orbital hybridization theory, exchange interaction, etc., the coupling effect of electrons and the principle of integer magnetic moments are analyzed. The Heisenberg model is used to calculate the exchange interactions between all atoms. Various exchange interactions between atoms are analyzed, and it is concluded that the dominant mechanism is the ferrimagnetic ordered phase. What’s more, we calculate the Curie temperature of the RhMnCrZ (Z = Si, Ge) alloys, taking into account the exchange interactions. The Curie temperatures of both Heusler alloys are above 900 K, which is significantly higher than room temperature. RhMnCrZ (Z = Si, Ge) alloys show promise for spintronics applications, as indicated by theoretical simulation calculations.
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