Structure of Mn-Si-Melts by Means of X-Ray Diffraction

The binary molten alloys Mn74Si26 and Mn33 5Si665 have been investigated by means of X-ray diffraction. The total structure factors as well as the total pair correlation functions were evaluated. The interatomic distances and total coordination numbers are given. The structural results for Mn74Si26 were compared to those for amorphous Mn74Si23P3 and for a tetrahedral packing model. A pronounced shoulder on the second maximum of the structure factor, which normally is characteristic for the curves obtained with amorphous substances was observed for the Mn74Si26 melt. With the Mn33 5Sig65 melt, however, this feature cold not be observed. Since with this concentration no glass forming by melt spinning is possible, a correlation between the shape of the second maximum of a total structure factor and the glass forming ability of the corresponding melt is suggested.