Direct observation of magnetic domains by Kerr microscopy in a Ni-Mn-Ga magnetic shape-memory alloy

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Magnetic domains in a Ni-Mn-Ga alloy exhibiting magnetic shape memory were observed by magneto-optical Kerr microscopy using monochromatic blue LED light. Domains were observed for both single- and multi-dimensional ferroelastic states of modulated martensite. In both cases, band domains separated by 180° domain walls were found and their dynamics were studied. A quasi-domain model was used to explain domains in a multivariate state.

Cooperating subject: IFW Dresden, Germany