The structure of non-stoichiometric alloys based on Ni2MnGa

Based on the analysis of high-resolution transmission electron microscopy images, fast Fourier transforms and electron diffraction patterns of a Ni2MnGa alloy, the role of the Ni excess atoms in the lattice distortion has been explained. It was stated that the deviation of the extra spots from the [110] to the [641] directions and the diffuse electron scattering may be related to the ordering of the Ni excess atoms. (c) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.