Martensitic transformation behavior of FeMnGe alloys

Abstract

The martensitic transformation behavior of FeMnGe alloy (0–6 wt% Ge) was investigated by resistivity and dilation methods. Ge depresses the martensitic transformation of FeMn alloy. The effect of Ge on starting temperature of martensitic transformation (Ms) temperature of FeMn alloy is −12 K/wt% Ge. Comparing Ge (4s24p2) with Si (3s23p2) and Al (3S23P1), which have similar outer shells of electrons, we found that their effects on the Ms of FeMn alloy are completely different. The result suggests that the outer shell of electron is not the main factor governing the Ms temperature of FeMn alloy, although it is essential in the alloy's antiferromagnetic transition.