Small-Angle Neutron Scattering and Magnetization Study of HoNi2B2C

TL;DR

This study investigates the superconducting and magnetic properties of HoNi2B2C single crystals using transport, magnetometry, and small-angle neutron scattering, revealing magnetic surface networks linked to domain walls and grain boundaries.

Contribution

It provides new insights into the magnetic structures and transitions in HoNi2B2C through combined experimental techniques.

Findings

Networks of magnetic surfaces observed below Tc

Magnetic behavior consistent with known metamagnetic transitions

Uncompensated moments at domain walls and grain boundaries identified

Abstract

The superconducting and magnetic properties of HoNi2B2C single crystals are investigated through transport, magnetometry and small-angle neutron scattering measurements. In the magnetic phases that enter below the superconducting critical temperature, the small-angle neutron scattering data uncover networks of magnetic surfaces. These likely originate from uncompensated moments e.g. at domain walls pinned to crystallographic grain boundaries. The field and temperature dependent behaviour appears consistent with the metamagnetic transitions reported in earlier works.