STRUCTURAL, MAGNETIC, TRANSPORT, AND ELECTRONIC PROPERTIES OF RNi4B AND RNi4Al COMPOUNDS (R = RARE EARTH)

Abstract

We review the results of our studies on the R Ni 4X compounds, where X = B or Al and R = Y or rare earth. Additionally, many new data are provided in the case of R Ni 4 Al . However, the magnetic, structural, electronic, and transport properties are shown in order to highlight the tendencies and the behavior as a function of the f-occupancy rather than to present the detailed experimental data. We concentrate mainly on the mixed-valence and Kondo-like behavior in the CeNi 4X and the magnetic moments and phase transitions in the ferromagnetic representatives of the R Ni 4X compounds. A variety of the experimental techniques has been used in the investigations: magnetometry, neutron and X-ray diffractometry, X-ray photoemission spectroscopy as well as electrical resistivity and the specific heat measurements.