Role of Ni-Mn hybridization in the magnetism of the martensitic state of Ni-Mn-In shape memory alloys

Abstract

Extended X-ray Absorption Fine Structure (EXAFS) studies on Ni(50)Mn(25+x)In(25-x) have been carried out at the Ni and Mn K-edge as a function of temperature. Thermal evolution of nearest-neighbor Ni-Mn and Mn-Mn bond distances in the martensitic phase gives a clear evidence of a close relation between structural and magnetic degrees of freedom in these alloys. In particular, the study highlights the role of Ni 3d-Mn 3d hybridization in the magnetism of the martensitic phase of these alloys.