The Magnetic Entropy Changes in Gd1-xCrx Alloys

Abstract

A series of Gd1-xCrx (x=0.01,0.03,0.05 and 0.07) alloys have been prepared by arc melting. After introducing a small quantity of Cr into Gd, the Curie temperatures of these alloys increase. Magnetic entropy changes at the Curie temperature of Gd1-xCrx (x=0.01, 0.03, 0.05) alloys are nearly the same as that of Gd. However, compared with Gd, the magnetic entropy changes of Gd1-xCrx (x=0.01, 0.03, 0.05) alloys remain at a high level in a wider temperature range. So Gd1-xCrx (x=0.01, 0.03, 0.05) alloys are more suitable as magnetic refrigerant to be used in Ericsson Recycle for room temperature magnetic refrigeration. Our results and the fact that Cr is quite cheaper than Gd, suggest that Gd1-xCrx alloys maybe utilized as refrigerant in room temperature magnetic refrigeration.