Phase stability, elastic anisotropy and electronic structure of cubic MAl2 (M = Mg, Ca, Sr and Ba) Laves phases from first-principles calculations

By performing first-principles calculations within the generalized gradient approximation, the phase stability, elastic constant and anisotropy, and density of states of cubic C15-type MAl2 (M = Mg, Ca, Sr and Ba) Laves phases have been investigated. Optimized equilibrium lattice parameters and formation enthalpies agree well with the available experimental data. Elastic constants C-ij have been evaluated, and these C15-type MAl2 Laves phases are mechanically stable due to the meeting of Cij to the mechanical stability criteria. Polycrystalline elastic moduli have been deduced from elastic constants by Voigt-Reuss-Hill approximation. Plastic properties were characterized via values of B/G, Poisson's ratio. and Cauchy pressure (C-12-C-44). The elastic anisotropy has been considered by several anisotropy indexes (A(U), A(Z), A(shear) and A(comp)), anisotropy of shear modulus, and 3D surface constructions of bulk and Young's moduli. Additionally, the sound velocity anisotropy and Debye temperature were predicted. Finally, electronic structures were carried out to reveal the underlying phase stability mechanism of these Laves phases.