Investigation of magnetocaloric effect in La0.45Pr0.25Ca0.3MnO3 by magnetic, differential scanning calorimetry and thermal analysis

► We report magnetic entropy change measured by indirect and direct methods in La0.45Pr0.25Ca0.3MnO3. ► Anomalous field-induced induced metamagnetic transition is found in the paramagnetic state. ► A large reversible magnetic entropy change (ΔSm=7.2 J kg−1 K−1 for ΔH=5 T). ► A large refrigeration capacity (RC=228 J kg−1). ► Collapse of magnetic polarons is suggested as possible origin of the large MCE.