High spin polarization in CoFeMnGe quaternary Heusler alloy

TL;DR

This study investigates the structural, magnetic, and spin polarization properties of CoFeMnGe quaternary Heusler alloy, revealing high spin polarization and thermal stability, making it promising for spintronic devices.

Contribution

It provides detailed characterization of CoFeMnGe alloy's structure, magnetic behavior, and high spin polarization, highlighting its potential for spintronic applications.

Findings

Curie temperature around 711K

Spin polarization of approximately 0.70

Half-metallic resistivity trend observed

Abstract

We report the structure, magnetic property and spin polarization of CoFeMnGe equiatomic quaternary Heusler alloy. The alloy was found to exist in the L21 structure with considerable amount of DO3 disorder. Thermal analysis result indicated the Curie temperature is about 711K without any other phase transformation up to melting temperature. The magnetization value was close to that predicted by the Slater-Pauling curve. Current spin polarization of P = 0.70 {plus/minus}0.1 was deduced using point contact Andreev reflection (PCAR) measurements. Half-metallic trend in the resistivity has also been observed in the temperature range of 5 K to 300 K. Considering the high spin polarization and Curie temperature, this material appears to be promising for spintronic applications.