The random anisotropy model for amorphous metallic alloys: generalized molecular field calculations

Abstract

In an attempt to explain the anomalous low-temperature magnetic properties of some amorphous rare earth-iron alloys, the authors have generalized the random anisotropy model of Harris, Plischke and Zuckermann. The results of the investigation for spin one and the classical case of infinite spin suggest the possibility of a 'spin glass-like' ground state, whose existence is confirmed by a Monte Carlo simulation. In addition, the magnetization curves show a well defined 'spin glass-like' ground state, whose existence is confirmed by a Monte Carlo simulation. In addition, the magnetization curves show a well defined 'spin glass-like' transition temperature and a sizeable coercive field, in qualitative agreement with experiments on amorphous REFe₂ compounds.