SPD-induced changes of structure and magnetic properties in the Cu–Co alloys

The microstructure and magnetic properties of binary Cu–Co alloys are studied. The investigations have been carried out using samples in two structural states, i.e. as-cast and after severe plastic deformation by the high-pressure torsion (HPT) carried out at the ambient temperature and pressure of 6 GPa. The grain size after HPT is in the nanometer range. HPT allows one to control the ratio between ferromagnetic and superparamagnetic precipitates in the diamagnetic matrix.

► The grain size in the Cu–Co alloys strongly decreased after high pressure torsion.
► It is possible to control the ratio between ferromagnetic and superparamagnetic particles.
► Severe plastic deformation permits to tailor the magnetic properties ob bulk nanomaterials.