Co-Sn thin films: Magnetic and transport properties

Abstract

CoxSn1-x forms amorphous alloys when the atomic fraction of Co, x, is less than ≊0.8. The magnetization 4πM decreases with decreasing cobalt corresponding to the transfer of 1.9 electrons from the Sn to the Co band. For the composition at Co52Sn48 where 4πM goes to zero, the alloy has itinerant features. The spontaneous Hall effect increases with Co dilution and is highest for the compositions at x≊0.5 to 0.6. In contrast, the anisotropic magnetoresistance Δρ decreases with cobalt dilution but shows a weak maximum in Δρ, at x ≊0.8. There is a correlation of the magnetostriction with Δρ as a function of composition.