Magnetic cryocooling with Gd3+ centers in a light and compact framework

Authors :: Lorusso, G.
Sharples, J. W.
Palacios, E.
Roubeau, O.
Brechin, E. K.
Sessoli, R.
Rossin, A.
Tuna, F.
McInnes, E. J. L.
Collison, D.
Evangelisti, M.
Publication Year :: 2012
Abstract: The magnetocaloric effect of gadolinium formate, Gd(OOCH)3, is experimentally determined down to sub-Kelvin temperatures by direct and indirect methods. This 3D metal-organic framework material is characterized by a relatively compact crystal lattice of weakly interacting Gd3+ spin centers interconnected via light formate ligands, overall providing a remarkably large magnetic:non-magnetic elemental weight ratio. The resulting volumetric magnetic entropy change is decidedly superior in Gd(OOCH)3 than in the best known magnetic refrigerant materials for liquid-helium temperatures and low-moderate applied fields.<br />Comment: 11 pages, 4 figures