Low-field magnetocaloric effect in (Gd1−xDyx)3Al2 alloys

The effects of Dy substitution on the magnetic properties and magnetocaloric effect of (Gd1−xDyx)3Al2 (x = 0-0.5) alloys have been investigated by X-ray diffraction and magnetization measurements. It was found that Dy substitution decreased the cell volume as well as the magnetic transition temperature. The maximum magnetic entropy change for a magnetic field change from 0 to 1 T almost keep constant with values of −2.2 to −2.5 J/kg K, while the refrigerant capacity (RC) decreases with Dy addition. The adjustable Curie temperature, moderate magnetic entropy change, and large RC make these alloys potential candidates as magnetic refrigerant.