Magneto-elastic interchange in ferromagnetic alloys

The internal friction delta, exchange integral A, magnetocrystalline anisotropic constant K-I and saturation magnetization M-s of Fe-Cr-Al and Fe-Cr-Al-Si alloys annealed at 1373 and 1473 K are measured. The energy density and volume fraction of domain walls (DWs) of these alloys are calculated based on the theories of ferromagnetism and the magnetic parameters measured. The physical process of irreversible movement of 90 degrees DWs is suggested. The results indicate the dissipated elastic energy per unit volume due to the irreversible movements of 90 degrees DWs is equal in value to the energy density of DWs, that is gamma(w)/delta(w) = lambda(s)E/2. It is an effect of magneto-elastic interchange in ferromagnetic alloys. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.