Improved magneostriction and mechanical properties in dual-phase FeGa single crystal

Single-phase Fe₈₁Ga₁₉ and dual-phase (Fe_0.81Ga_0.19)_99.95Tb_0.05 single crystals with perfect [001] orientation were prepared by directional solidification technology. The performance of the dual-phase single crystal (SC) can achieve 399 ppm in magnetostriction and 10.2% in tensile fracture strain, which are, respectively, 28% and 5 times larger than those in single-phase Fe₈₁Ga₁₉ SC. The slight solid solution of Tb and dispersive distributed Tb-rich particles in dual-phase SC, respectively, lead to the improvement in magnetostriction and ductility. This dual-phase SC can become the candidate for new-generation magnetostrictive materials combining significant advantages in both structural and functional properties. Impact statement This dual-phase (Fe_0.81Ga_0.19)_99.95Tb_0.05 single crystal combining large magnetostriction and excellent mechanical properties can be new-generation magnetostrictive materials which can satisfy the application requirement in structural and functional properties.