Exploring the physical properties of Co2MnSi full Heusler alloy: a first principles study

Half-metallic ferromagnetic Heusler alloys attracted much attention in the last few decades due to their significant physical properties as well as its potential applications in spintronic devices. To explore and predict the various physical properties of Co-based Heusler alloy, Co2MnSi (CMS), First principles calculations are of interest and has been used in the present study. Optimized E–V curves represent that CMS alloy is most stable in its magnetic L21 structural phase. The electronic charge density plot represents the ionic bonding along with co-valent character for the compound. DOS and BS calculations shows 100% spin polarization at Fermi level (EF) which confirms the half metallic character of the compound. DOS exhibited the prominent role of Co-3d and Mn-3d electronic states along with Si-2p electronic states. Estimated magnetic moment of Co2MnSi Heusler alloy was found to be ~ 5μB per f. u. which is in line with the Slater-Pauling behaviour. Dynamical stability of Co2MnSi Heusler alloy has also been verified by the phonon dispersion curves which revealed that compound is dynamically stable. Additionally, the physical properties have also been explored as a consequence of SOC and significant changes in electronic and optical properties were observed. The observed significant results of electronic, magnetic, and optical properties of CMS Heusler alloy makes it promising towards potential application in optical and spintronic devices.