Non-collinear magnetic structures and first-order magnetization process in rare-earth systems

First-order field-induced spin reorientation transitions in multisublattice intermetallic compounds are considered within an anisotropic Heisenberg model, only leading-order anisotropy constants being included. The exchange interactions both between the rare-earth (RE) and transition metal sublattices and within the RE sublattice play an important role in the model. The latter interaction results in the occurrence of metastable states corresponding to a noncollinear magnetic structure. The possible FOMP scenarios for R2Fe17, HOFe11Ti, and TbMn6Sn6 systems are discussed. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.