abstract
In this study, we investigated the morphology, structure, magnetic, and magnetocaloric properties of ErCrO3 (ECO) nanoparticles synthesized through two distinct chemical routes: combustion and hydrothermal methods. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed a well-crystallized orthorhombic pbnm phase in both samples. The broader Raman peaks observed in the hydrothermal sample indicate a larger strain of 0.138%, compared to the combustion-derived sample. A significant reduction in the magnetic phase transition temperature was observed for ECO nanoparticles synthesized via the hydrothermal method (117 K) compared to those derived from combustion (similar to 130 K), which can be attributed to size-induced strain. The hydrothermal ECO samples exhibited a broader temperature span and lower entropy changes compared to the combustion-derived counterparts. Consequently, we observed an improved relative cooling power of 523 J K-1 and entropy change of -10.8 J kg(-1) K-1 at a magnetic field of 50 kOe. These findings are promising for magnetic refrigeration applications. The ability to tailor magnetocaloric properties through straightforward synthesis methods underscores their significance in advancing potential applications.
keywords
RCRO3 R; SINGLE-CRYSTALS; EARTH; ER; BEHAVIOR; IONS; GD; YB; DY; ND
subject category
Chemistry
authors
Carvalho, J; Durairajan, A; Ramana, EV; Goswami, S; Lourenço, AACS; Graça, MPF; Valente, MA
our authors
Armando António Cardoso Dos Santos Lourenço
Assistant Professoracknowledgements
This work was developed within the scope of the project "MagNanoCal" financed by FCT, I.P., Expl/CTM/CTM/0054/2021. EVR acknowledges FCT for the financial support by national funds (OE) in the scope of the framework contract foreseen in the numbers 4, 5, and 6 of article 23 of the Decree-Law 57/2016, of August 29, changed by Law 57/ 2017, of July 19. The authors also acknowledge financial support of I3N, UIDB/50025/2020 & UIDP/50025/2020 funded by FCT/MEC