Ni-Mn-based magnetic shape memory alloys:: Magnetic properties and martensitic transition

We report a compilation of the structural and magnetic properties of Ni-Mn-based magnetic alloys with special attention to those which undergo martensitic transformations. We discuss the effect of the coupling between structure and magnetism on the properties of these alloys and how this coupling affects their martensitic transition. We show that as a consequence of such a coupling, these alloys exhibit an unusual magneto-mechanical and magneto-thermal behaviour which gives rise to singular functional properties such as magnetic shape memory and magnetic superelasticity, as well as conventional and inverse giant magnetocaloric effects. (C) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.