Magnetic and Structural Behavior of Nanocrystalline Iron-Silicon and Iron-Tin Produced via Mechanical Milling

Abstract

This study presents a comparative investigation of the structural, morphological, and magnetic properties of nanostructured FeSi and FeSn alloys synthesized via the ball milling process. The alloys were analyzed at various milling times from 0 to 20 hours using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). XRD analysis confirmed the formation of FeSi and FeSn phases after 20 hours of milling, with characteristic peaks indicating structural evolution. SEM micrographs revealed significant morphological changes and particle refinement with increased milling time. Magnetic measurements highlighted contrasting behaviors between the two alloys. For FeSn, increased milling time enhanced coercivity, remanence magnetization, and squareness, accompanied by a reduction in saturation magnetization. Conversely, FeSi exhibited superparamagnetic behavior with notable saturation magnetization and significant coercivity (Hc). These findings emphasize the distinct magnetic and structural properties of FeSi and FeSn nanocrystalline alloys and their potential for tailored applications in advanced magnetic systems.