Int. J. Adv. Sci. Eng. Vol.11 No.2 4044-4054 (2024) 4044 E-ISSN: 2349 5359; P-ISSN: 2454-9967
Preeti Sharma et al.,
International Journal of Advanced Science and Engineering www.mahendrapublications.com
ABSTRACT: This review paper presents an in-depth analysis of Heusler alloys, focusing on their
structural, electronic, magnetic, mechanical, and thermoelectric characteristics, and potential
applications. It begins with an examination of the crystal structure and composition, highlighting how
composition influences structural properties. The paper delves into the electronic aspects by
analyzing band structures and Fermi surfaces through density functional theory studies. The magnetic
behavior of these alloys, pivotal in spintronic applications, is also scrutinized. Furthermore, the paper
discusses mechanical properties like elastic constants and shape memory effects, and thermoelectric
features including phonon and electron transport. Applications in energy conversion, storage,
spintronics, sensing, and actuation are explored, emphasizing the alloys' role in lithium-ion batteries,
fuel cells, spin valves, and magnetic tunnel junctions. Finally, it addresses challenges and future
perspectives in synthesizing and integrating Heusler alloys for enhanced performance, underscoring
the need for further research to unlock their full potential in various technological fields.
KEYWORDS: Heusler Alloys, Spintronics, Thermoelectric Properties, Density Functional Theory,
Mechanical and Magnetic Behavior
https://doi.org/10.29294/IJASE.11.2.2024.4044-4054 ©2024 Mahendrapublications.com, All rights reserved
*Corresponding Author: preetisharmabhopal@gmail.com
Received: 11.10.2024 Accepted: 27.11.2024 Published on: 14.12.2024
Heusler Alloys: Structural, Electronic, Magnetic, Mechanical,
and Thermoelectric Features - A Review
Preeti Sharma*, Rajni Kant, Purvee Bhardwaj
Department of physics, Rabindranath Tagore University, Bhopal 464993, India
1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background and History
Heusler alloys, named after Fritz Heusler who
first discovered them in 1903, are intermetallic
compounds with a unique crystal structure and
fascinating properties [1]. These alloys are
composed of three elements, typically one
transition metal (X), one element from the
group IIIA or IVA (Y), and one element from the
group VB or VIB (Z) of the periodic table [2].
The general formula for Heusler alloys is X2YZ.
Initially, Heusler alloys were primarily
investigated for their magnetic properties and
their potential applications in the field of
magnetism and spintronics. However,
subsequent research revealed their
multifunctional nature, leading to explorations
in various fields such as electronics,
thermoelectric, and even as catalysts
[3].Through this review, we aim to contribute to
the understanding of Heusler alloys and their
potential for various technological applications,
while also identifying areas that require further
research and development.
1.2 Importance and Applications
Heusler alloys have gained significant
importance due to their wide range of unique
properties and potential applications in several
technological areas. The following are some
notable applications where Heusler alloys have
shown promise:
1.2.1 Magnetic Materials: Heusler alloys
exhibit remarkable magnetic properties,
including high magnetization, large
magnetoresistance, and high Curie
temperatures [4]. These properties make them
suitable for applications in magnetic sensors,
magnetic recording media, and spintronic
devices.
1.2.2 Spintronics: The combination of excellent
spin-polarized transport properties and strong
spin-dependent phenomena in Heusler alloys
makes them valuable for spintronics
applications [5]. They have been investigated
for use in spin valves, magnetic tunnel
junctions, and spin-transfer torque devices.
1.2.3 Thermoelectric Materials: Heusler alloys
have attracted attention as potential
thermoelectric materials due to their unique
electronic structure and tunable transport