Abstract

We present direct evidence that the giant magnetocaloric effect recently discovered in the ${\mathrm{Gd}}_{5}{(\mathrm{S}\mathrm{i}}_{1.8}{\mathrm{Ge}}_{2.2})$ alloy is associated with a field-induced first-order structural transition from a ${P112}_{1}/a$ monoclinic (paramagnetic) to a Pnma orthorhombic (ferromagnetic) structure. A large volume contraction of $\ensuremath{\Delta}V/V\ensuremath{\cong}0.4%$ takes place spontaneously at the transition temperature, ${T}_{C}\ensuremath{\cong}240\mathrm{K}.$ The reported structural transition can be induced reversibly by application of an external magnetic field, producing strong magnetoelastic effects.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.