Repeated magnetic compensation behavior in the rare-earth alloy Nd_0.75Gd_0.25Rh₃B₂ with hexagonal structure and planar anisotropy

Abstract

The results of dc and ac magnetization, electrical resistance, and heat-capacity studies in an admixed rare-earth alloy Nd_0.75Gd_0.25Rh₃B₂, which is close to the zero magnetization limit, are reported. Interesting observations include the two antiferromagneticlike transitions, concomitant repeated/multiple magnetic compensation behavior, and a characteristic oscillatory magnetic response, with temperature dependence of magnetization at low fields crossing the M=0 axis thrice. The effective coercive field relating to the residual remanence also has an oscillatory response, with two minima located close to two "zero-cross over" temperatures. The unusual behavior in Nd_0.75Gd_0.25Rh₃B₂ is conjectured to arise from its anisotropic hexagonal structure, with planar anisotropy, resulting in a quasi-one-dimensional electronic structure and the accentuated role of conduction-electron polarization near the zero magnetization limit.