Formation enthalpies of Al–Fe–Zr–Nd system calculated by using geometric and Miedema's models

Formation enthalpy is important for the phase stability and amorphous forming ability of alloys. The formation enthalpies of Fe17RE2 (RE=Ce, Pr, Nd, Gd and Er) obtained by Miedema's theory are in good agreement with those of the experiments. The dependence of formation enthalpy on concentration of Al for intermetallic (AlxFe1−x)17Nd2 have been calculated by Miedema's theory and the geometric model. The solid solubility of Al in (AlxFe1−x)17Nd2 is coincident with the concentration dependence of formation enthalpy. The mixing enthalpies of liquid alloys and formation enthalpies of alloys for Al–Fe–Zr–Nd system have been predicted. The calculated mixing enthalpy indicates that the adding of Fe or Nd decreases monotonously the magnitude of enthalpy. The formation enthalpies of Al–Fe–Zr–Nd system indicate that the shape of the enthalpy contour map changes when the content of Al is less than 50.0 at% and then it remains unchanged except the decrease of magnitude. The formation enthalpy of Al–Fe–Zr–Nd increases with the increase of Fe and/or Nd content. The negative formation enthalpy indicates that Al–Fe–Zr–Nd system has higher amorphous forming ability and wide amorphous forming range. The certain contents of Zr and/or Al are beneficial for the formation of Al–Fe–Zr–Nd intermetallics.