Hyperfine field relaxations in the Fe−Co−B amorphous alloys

A systematic increase of the average hyperfine magnetic induction at⁵⁷Fe measured at room temperature during interrupted isothermal annealing was found to be inherent to the irreversible relaxation processes in the Fe−B based soft magnetic alloys at moderately elevated temperatures. Assuming superimposed asymptotic exponential field vs. time dependences. several processes can be distinguished, their relaxation times determined and from the Arrhenius-like log τ vs. 1/T plots average activation enthalpies estimated. Results on the Fe₇₀Co₁₀B₂₀ and Fe_85−x Co _x B₁₅ (x=17, 19 and 21 at. % Co) amorphous ribbons between 100 and 200°C are compared and discussed in terms of possible stress relief, free volume annihilation and short range ordering mechanisms.