Magnetic properties and magneto-optical spectroscopy of Heusler alloys based on transition metals and Sn

The formation and magnetic properties of Heusler compounds of the general formula X₂YSn were studied, where X represents a 3d transition metal or Cu and where Y represents a second 3d transition metal or a metal of group IV A, VA and VI A of the periodic table. The lattice constant was determined for all Heusler compounds studied. The Co moment in the Co₂YSn compounds was not found to scale in a sample manner to the electronegativity difference E φ^* between Co and the Y components as was previously observed in the series Co₂YAl and Co₂YGa. All compounds of the type Ni₂YSn were found to be Pauli paramagnetic when Y is non-magnetic metal. Compounds having a Curie temperature above room temperature were investigated by means of magneto-optical polar Kerr-effect spectroscopy. Experimental indications were obtained for charge transfer transitions in the series Co₂TiSn, Co₂HfSn.