Enhancement of rare-earth--transition-metal exchange interaction in Pr$_{2}$Fe$_{17}$ probed by inelastic neutron scattering

TL;DR

This study investigates the magnetic interactions in Pr$_{2}$Fe$_{17}$ using inelastic neutron scattering, revealing a large exchange field and the significance of $J$-mixing effects, which could impact magnetic material applications.

Contribution

It provides new insights into the exchange interactions and ground-state properties of Pr$_{2}$Fe$_{17}$, highlighting the role of $J$-mixing effects in its magnetic behavior.

Findings

Confirmation of three magnetically inequivalent sites

Discovery of an exceptionally large exchange field

Evidence of significant $J$-mixing effects

Abstract

The fundamental magnetic interactions of Pr$_{2}$Fe$_{17}$ are studied by inelastic neutron scattering and anisotropy field measurements. Data analysis confirms the presence of three magnetically inequivalent sites, and reveals an exceptionally large value of the exchange field. The unexpected importance of $J$-mixing effects in the description of the ground-state properties of Pr$_{2}$Fe$_{17}$ is evidenced, and possible applications of related compounds are envisaged.