Crystallization behavior, soft magnetism and nanoindentation of Fe–Si–B–P–Cu alloy on Ni substitution

The present work investigates how the substitution of Ni for Fe in the amorphous precursor of the high flux density Fe–Si–B–P–Cu (Nanomet®) alloy avoids the creation of detrimental pre-existing nuclei in the amorphous precursor as a step forward for improved amorphization capability, retains homogenous nanocrystalline structure with excellent soft magnetic properties, and affects the mechanical properties in terms of reduced hardness and Young’s modulus. This has been achieved by adding Ni of various concentrations (0–8 atomic %). The investigation includes structural characterization, calorimetry, optimization of annealing temperature, extensive magnetic characterization and nanoindentation to assess the mechanical properties. The excellent soft magnetic properties demonstrate a strategy to deploy the nanocrystalline ribbons where freedom of device design is a limiting factor for electrodynamic energy conversion applications. [Display omitted] •Nanocrystalline Fe83.3-xNixSi4B8P4Cu0.7 (x = 0–8 at. %) was prepared by melt spinning and annealing.•Optimum mechanical and magnetic properties was found for x = 4 at. %.•The effect of annealing temperature on saturation magnetization and coercivity was extensively investigated.•The reduced density of pre-existing nuclei with Ni substitution was confimed with magneto thermo gravimetry.