Magnetic and electrical properties of Nd7Pt3 studied on single crystals

Magnetic and electrical properties of Nd7Pt3 with the Th7Fe3 type hexagonal structure have been studied on single crystals by measuring magnetization, magnetic susceptibility and electrical resistivity. Nd7Pt3 possesses a ferromagnetic state below TC = 38 K; a canted antiferromagnetic state takes place at Tt2 = 34 K. Another magnetic phase transition has also been observed at Tt1 = 25 K. The magnetization curve along the a- and b-axes at 2 K shows anomalous first-order irreversible behavior. The direction of the magnetic moment in the canted state can be tilted from the c-plane. Electrical resistivity measurement results show metallic property; three anomalies were observed at Tt1, Tt2 and TC, respectively.