Near room temperature LaFe_11.6Si_1.4/Pr_xCo₇ magnetocaloric composites with excellent mechanical and thermal properties

LaFe_11.6Si_1.4/10wt%Pr_xCo₇ (x = 1, 2, 3, 5) magnetocaloric composites were prepared by spark plasma sintering (SPS) and diffusion annealing. The phase composition, microstructure, magnetic, mechanical and thermal properties were studied. The addition of Pr_xCo₇ binder can be used to tune the phase fraction and magnetic properties. Pr₂Co₇ binder promoted the formation of 1:13 phase. LaFe_11.6Si_1.4/10wt%Pr₂Co₇ composites possess the highest 1:13 content (~ 89 wt%). The Curie temperature (T_C) can be tuned in the technologically useful range of 280–347 K. Relatively large maximum magnetic entropy change (− ∆S_M)^max (2 T) of 1.45−3.16 J/kg K and refrigeration capacity (RC) (2 T) of 117–137 J/kg were obtained. These composites exhibit superior compressive strength of 1005–1250 MPa and excellent thermal conductivity of 17.68–27.77 W/m K. Thus, LaFe_11.6Si_1.4/10wt%Pr_xCo₇ magnetocaloric composites possess excellent mechanical and thermal properties, with adjustable magnetic properties and have the potential application for near room temperature magnetic refrigeration.