Study on structure and magnetic entropy changes of Ce_(2-x)Pr_xFe_(16.5)Co_(0.5) alloys

摘要

A series of Ce_(2-x)Pr_xFe_(16.5)Co_(0.5) alloys were prepared by arc melting under purified argon atmosphere. The structure and magnetic entropy changes in Ce_(2-x)Pr_xFe_(16.5)Co_(0.5) alloys were investigated by means of X-ray diffraction pattern and MPMS XL-7 magnetometer. The experimental results show that the crystal structure of Ce_(2-x)Pr_xFe_(16.5)Co_(0.5) alloys keeps in Th_2Zn_(17)-type rhombohedral, and the Curie temperature of Ce_(2-x)Pr_xFe_(16.5)Co_(0.5) alloys can be shifted to room temperature around by a composition adjustment. The magnetic entropy changes ( - ΔS_M) in Ce_(2-x)Pr_xFe_(16.5)Co_(0.5) alloys are relatively large, and a platform of magnetic entropy changes appears near the temperature T_C. Ce_(2-x)Pr_xFe_(16.5)Co_(0.5) alloys are the potential working media for magnetic refrigeration with their stable chemical properties and especially low price.