Magnetism and electronic band structure of FeCrV_1-xCo_xAl

Heusler alloys have attracted much attention because of their multiple interesting properties with prospects for spintronics, energy technology and magnetic refrigeration.  Additionally, the magnetic properties of these materials can be tuned to fit specific applications by adjusting the elemental composition. We have synthesized FeCrV_1-xCo_xAl Heusler alloys having potential for spin-transport based applications using arc melting and high-vacuum annealing. The room temperature x-ray diffraction patterns of the as-prepared FeCrCoAl, FeCrCo_0.5V_0.5Al and FeCrVAl indicate that all three samples crystallize in cubic structure without secondary phases. The as-prepared  FeCrCoAl alloy shows a ferrimagnetic order with a high Curie temperature of about 450 K but both FeCrCo_0.5V_0.5Al and FeCrVAl show paramagnetic behavior. In this presentation, we will discuss the effect of heat treatment on the structural and magnetic properties of FeCrV_1-xCo_xAl and also the results of our first principle calculation.