Microstructure and cryogenic magnetic properties in amorphousized RE57Cu25Al18 (RE = Ho and Tm) ribbons.

Abstract Magnetic cooling technology based on the magneto-caloric effect (MCE) has emerged as a viable alternative to conventional vapor compression refrigeration technology. Exploring suitable magnetic solids with promising magneto-caloric performances is a key issue in this field. Here, we report a systematic characterization of the glass forming ability, microstructure, magnetism and MCE of Ho 57 Cu 25 Al 18 and Tm 57 Cu 25 Al 18 amorphous ribbons. Promising MCE performances were observed for both ribbons at low temperature. Compared with most of the rare earth-based amorphous alloys, both ribbons were found to have comparable or even larger values of -Δ S M max (maximum magnetic entropy change), RC (refrigeration capacity) and RCP (relative cooling power). These promising magneto-caloric performances make amorphousized RE 57 Cu 25 Al 18 ribbons attractive for active cryogenic magnetic refrigeration. Highlights • Magnetism and magnetocaloric effect (MCE) in RE 57 Cu 25 Al 18 ribbons were studied. • Promising MCE performance was observed in amorphous RE 57 Cu 25 Al 18 ribbons. • The origin of MCE in amorphous RE 57 Cu 25 Al 18 ribbons was discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]