Unlocking the Potential of Magnetic Refrigeration: Investigating the Compatibility of the Ga-Based Liquid Metal with a La(Fe,Mn,Si)<sub>13</sub>H<sub><i>z</i></sub> Magnetocaloric Material for Enhanced Long-Term Stability
Keerthivasan Rajamani, Muhammet S. Toprak, Fengqi Zhang, A. Iulian Dugulan, E. Brück, Theo van der Meer, Mina Shahi
Abstract
High Resolution Image Download MS PowerPoint Slide Magnetic refrigeration (MR) is a cutting-edge technology that promises high energy efficiency and eco-friendliness, making it an exciting alternative to traditional refrigeration systems. However, the main challenge to its widespread adoption is cost competitiveness. In this context, the use of liquid metals as heat transfer liquids in the MR has been proposed as a game-changing solution. Unfortunately, the toxicity and flammability of these liquid metals have raised serious concerns, limiting their practical use. In this study, we investigate the compatibility of a nontoxic and nonflammable GaInSn-based liquid metal with a magnetocaloric material, La(Fe,Mn,Si) 13 H z, over a 1.5 year period. Our findings reveal nearly a 14% reduction in specific cooling energy and peak-specific isothermal magnetic entropy change for the considered magnetocaloric material. Our study provides valuable insights into the long-term stability of magnetocaloric materials and their compatibility with liquid metals, facilitating the development of more cost-effective and sustainable MR systems.