Crystallization kinetics and magnetization behavior of RE3.5Fe66.5Co10B20 (RE = Pr, Nd) nanocomposite ribbons

The influence of hard magnetic phase on the crystallization kinetics and magnetization behavior in nanocomposite RE3.5Fe66.5Co10B20 (RE = Pr, Nd) ribbons prepared by melt-spinning was studied. Differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) measurement of the as-cast melt-spun amorphous ribbons during the crystallization process shows that precipitation energy of Pr2Fe14B phase is higher than that for Nd2Fe14B phase, confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns. It can be explained by the different radii of Pr and Nd atoms. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images indicate that the average grain size in Pr3.5Fe66.5Co10B20 ribbon is smaller than that in Nd3.5Fe66.5Co10B20, resulting in an enhancement of exchange coupling between hard and soft phases. It is responsible for the better hard magnetic properties in Pr3.5Fe66.5Co10B20. In addition, the process of magnetization reversal of nanocomposite RE3.5Fe66.5Co10B20 (RE = Pr, Nd) ribbons was discussed in detail by the recoil loops.