Heusler compounds - A material class with exceptional properties

The class of Heusler compounds, including the XYZ and the X2YZ compounds, has not only an endless number of members, but also a vast variety of properties can be found in this class of materials, ranging from semiconductors, half-metallic ferromagnets, superconductors, and topological insulators to shape memory alloys. With this review article, we would like to provide an overview of Heusler compounds, focusing on their structure, properties, and potential applications. © 2006 IEEE.