Magnetocaloric Effect of LaFe11.5Si1.5C0.2 Sinters Prepared by SPS Process

In order to make high performance magnetic refrigeration materials, Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) process was introduced in the preparation of LaFe11.5Si1.5C0.2 materials. Results show that the size of the starting powder has a significant influence on the magnetic entropy change than the sintered temperature does. Finer starting powder induce a decomposition of 1:13 phase into α-Fe phase during sintered process. By controlling the particle size, the decomposition can be decreased. The maximum magnetic entropy change value of the sinters with the size of sutible starting powder is as same as the parent compound. Also, the hysteresis loss of the sinters decreased.