Influence of Nb on the first stage of crystallization in Fe86−xNbxB14 amorphous alloys

The kinetics of the first stage of crystallization (nanocrystallization) in the Fe86−xNbxB14 amorphous alloys was studied by applying differential scanning calorimetry and magnetic balance techniques. It was shown that the nanocrystallization temperature increases with increasing Nb content by more than 80 K. Activation enthalpy of the nanocrystallization process increases from 2 eV for 2 at.% of Nb to 4 eV for 5–8 at.% of Nb. The results obtained by the mentioned experimental techniques are also discussed from the methodological point of view.