Neutron depolarization study of static magnetic characteristics of amorphous ferromagnetic alloys

The principle of neutron depolarization experiments for condensed matter studies is outlined. The specimens investigated are ferromagnetic ribbons obtained by means of a rapid quenching of the melt upon a water cooled copper drum rotating at a frequency of 1 kHz. The depolarization oscillation depending on the neutron wavelength is measured. The magnitude of the saturation induction for all samples is determined by a fitting procedure. It is concluded that all samples have a magnetic anisotropy and its type seems to be characteristic for the as-cast amorphous ribbons fabricated at high quenching rate. The data show that in the state of saturation the magnetization fluctuations do not disappear for the most of the samples. 6 figs., 2 tabs., 10 refs. (author)