Structural and intrinsic magnetic properties of Sm2Fe17Ny (y = 2–8)

The Sm2Fe17Ny nitrides with nitrogen concentration y=2 to 8 have been prepared using a mixed gas atmosphere of NH3 and H2. Their intrinsic magnetic properties were studied at 1.5 and 293 K. The Th2Zn17-type structure is maintained when y is less than 6. The 9e sites can be fully occupied and the 18g sites may be half occupied by nitrogen atoms. The nitrogen at the 9e sites and 18g sites have a positive effect and a negative effect, respectively, on the intrinsic magnetic properties of Sm2Fe17 compound. The nitride Sm2Fe17N3 has the best intrinsic magnetic properties.