We introduce a new aproximation scheme for the periodic Anderson model (PAM).
The modified alloy approximation represents an optimum alloy approximation for
the strong coupling limit, which can be solved within the CPA-formalism.
Zero-temperature and finite-temperature phase diagrams are presented for the
PAM in the intermediate-valence regime. The diversity of magnetic properties
accessible by variation of the system parameters can be studied by means of
quasiparticle densities of states: The conduction band couples either ferro- or
antiferromagneticaly to the f-levels. A finite hybridization is a necessary
precondition for ferromagnetism. However, too strong hybridization generally
suppresses ferromagnetism, but can for certain system parameters also lead to a
semi-metallic state with unusual magnetic properties. By comparing with the
spectral density approximation, the influence of quasiparticle damping can be
examined.Comment: 20 pages, 13 figure