Simultaneous Probing of First-Order Phase Transitions: a Path to Unveil Gd<sub>5</sub>Si<sub>2</sub>Ge<sub>2</sub> Magnetostructural Transition Driving Mechanism
Oral-In-person
Abstract
Gd₅Si₂Ge₂ undergoes a first-order magnetostructural phase transition that gives rise to its giant magnetocaloric response, making it a promising candidate for magnetic refrigeration technologies [1]. Nevertheless, the kinetics of this transition remain not fully understood, hindering the optimization of the magnetic refrigeration devices, which require rapid transitions to achieve high frequencies/performance [2].
In this study, an innovative experimental setup that examines transition kinetics under high magnetic fields was designed, implemented and validated at High Field Magnetic Laboratory (HFML), enabling simultaneous, time-resolved measurements of temperature, magnetization, and strain on bulk Gd₅Si₂Ge₂ samples. The evolution of the phase transformations was probed in full detail by applying a specific magnetic field protocol [3], revealing partial decoupling between the structure and magnetic lattices during the transition process.
Our work not only advances fundamental understanding of phase transition kinetics in this and other magnetocaloric materials but also provides a powerful platform to study and optimize other material classes, paving the way for more efficient energy technologies.
[1] J. Appl. Phys. 126, 243902 (2019)
[2] Advanced Energy Materials 5, 1401639 (2015)
[3] Materials Today Physics 42, 101388 (2024)
In this study, an innovative experimental setup that examines transition kinetics under high magnetic fields was designed, implemented and validated at High Field Magnetic Laboratory (HFML), enabling simultaneous, time-resolved measurements of temperature, magnetization, and strain on bulk Gd₅Si₂Ge₂ samples. The evolution of the phase transformations was probed in full detail by applying a specific magnetic field protocol [3], revealing partial decoupling between the structure and magnetic lattices during the transition process.
Our work not only advances fundamental understanding of phase transition kinetics in this and other magnetocaloric materials but also provides a powerful platform to study and optimize other material classes, paving the way for more efficient energy technologies.
[1] J. Appl. Phys. 126, 243902 (2019)
[2] Advanced Energy Materials 5, 1401639 (2015)
[3] Materials Today Physics 42, 101388 (2024)
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Publication: There are 3 expected papers under preparation as outputs of this work. One of them will focus on the innovative experimental setup designed and implemented. The others will focus on the phase transitions evolution of two different magnetocaloric materials - Gd5Si2Ge2 and Heusler Alloy Ni-Mn-In.
Presenters
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Leonor Andrade
- University of Porto / IFIMUP