Abstract: Sb substituted Sm₂Fe_17-xSb_x materials have been synthesized by using modified reduction-diffusion process with superfine Fe metal powder as a starting material. This synthetic route is unique and particularly useful for the intermetallic compounds containing high volatile component. The substitution of Sb to the Sm₂Fe₁₇ significantly enhances the magnetic interaction between Fe atoms, which in turn, increases the Curie temperature of the materials. In addition, the chemical stability of Sm₂Fe₁₇ can also be improved by Sb substitution.

Key words: Intermetallic compound, Antimony, Chemistry synthesis