Magnetic properties of Co_2C and Co_3C nanoparticles and their assemblies

摘要

Nano-composite material consisting of Co_2C and Co_3C nanoparticles has recently been shown to exhibit unusually large coercivities and energy products. Experimental studies that can delineate the properties of individual phases have been undertaken and provide information on how the coercivities and the energy product change with the size and composition of the nanoparticles. The studies indicate that while both phases are magnetic, the Co_3C has higher magnetization and coercivity compared to Co_2C. Through first principles electronic structure studies using a GGA+U functional, we provide insight on the role of C intercalation on enhancing the magnetic anisotropy of the individual phases.