Magnetic properties of Pr_1 xGd_xMn₂Ge₂

Abstract

The structural and magnetic properties of Pr1−xGdxMn2Ge2 were studied by x-ray diffraction and magnetization measurements. The substitution of Gd for Pr leads to a linear decrease in the lattice constants and the magnetic interactions in the Mn sublattice cross over from a ferromagnetic character to an antiferromagnetic one. At low temperatures, the rare-earth sublattice also orders and reconfigures the ordering in the Mn sublattice. The spins in the Mn sublattice are arranged parallel to the Pr sublattice and antiparallel to the Gd sublattice. The results are collected in a phase diagram.