Theoretical design of molecular nanomagnets for magnetic refrigeration

摘要

Molecular nanomagnets are promising materials for very-low-temperature magnetic refrigeration due to their enhanced magnetocaloric effect. By explicitly considering Carnot refrigeration cycles, we theoretically show that the best molecules for magnetic refrigeration between T≃10 K and the sub-Kelvin region are those made of strongly ferromagnetically coupled magnetic ions, contrarily to the established belief. This recipe will provide a strong stimulus for designing new magnetic molecules for cryogenic technologies.