Crystal structure and magnetic properties of PrCo6.8 xCuxHf0.2compounds

The effects of Cu substitution on the crystal structure and magnetic properties of PrCo 6.8− x Cu x Hf 0.2 ( x = 0–1.0) compounds were investigated by means of x-ray powder diffraction and magnetic measurements. The as-cast PrCo 6.8− x Cu x Hf 0.2 compounds crystallize in the TbCu 7 -type structure with the space group P 6/ mmm . The Curie temperature and magnetic anisotropy field decrease with increasing Cu content. A spin reorientation behaviour has been observed in the PrCo 6.8− x Cu x Hf 0.2 compounds. The addition of Cu weakens the anisotropy of the Co sublattice, leading to an increase in the spin reorientation temperature with increasing content of Cu.