LaFe11.6 Si1.4/Cu Magnetocaloric Composites Prepared by Hot Pressing

We report on the microstructure, phase constitution, mechanical properties, and magnetocaloric effect (MCE) of Cu-bonded La(Fe,Si)(13) composites prepared by hot pressing (HP) at different temperatures. It was found that the final density of composites greatly relies on the initial powder size and pressing temperature. Finer powders lower the temperature needed for fully compacting. HP at 700 degrees C suits finer La(Fe,Si)(13) powders to approach the theoretical density and high mechanical strength, and 800 degrees C for coarse powders. At the same time, the drastic diffusion reaction takes place at evaluated temperature due to Cu-La eutectic point. Combined with the influence of press-induced grain breaking, the MCE was decreased with respect to the pure La(Fe,Si)(13) phase.