Sendust Alloy: A Review on the Synthesis, Structure, Magnetic Properties, and Applications

A unique intermetallic alloy composed of Fe (81–85 wt %), Si (7–13 wt %), and Al (4–7 wt %) which is named Sendust, is typically synthesized by conventional methods, such as crushing and/or atomizing. Various techniques have been described for obtaining Sendust nanostructures in recent decades. This paper reviews the synthesis, crystal structure, magnetic properties, and old and new applications of Sendust. Formation of its ordered and/or disordered phases through different methods such as mechanical alloying, atomizing, and/or melting is possible. Its special magnetic properties, including high permeability, low hysteresis loss, zero magnetostriction, and nearly zero first constant of magnetic anisotropy, make it suitable for a wide range of electronic applications. Various applications of Sendust from magnetic cores in power supplies, its role in magnetic recording devices, the excellent magnetic permeability of its nanostructures in the GHz frequency range, reduced power losses for suppressing microwave absorption, and electromagnetic interference shielding are reviewed.