LaFe11Co0.8Si1.2/Al magnetocaloric composites prepared by hot pressing

The microstructure, mechanical properties, thermal transfer performance, and magnetocaloric effect were investigated in LaFe11Co0.8Si1.2/10 wt% Al composites prepared by hot pressing. The Al particles can deform and form a homogenous matrix during compacting in these composites. Pure Al metal reacts slowly with the LaFe11Co0.8Si1.2 compound at temperatures near 873 K. The introduction of Al particles significantly enhances the mechanical and thermal transfer properties, while slightly degrades the magnetocaloric effect. At room temperature, aforementioned composites show maximum entropy change values of 5.1-5.9 J/kg K under a magnetic change of 2 T, high thermal conductivity of 9.9-17.0 W/m K, and high compressive strength of 106-186 MPa. (C) 2020 Published by Elsevier B.V.