Realization of a small hysteresis loss and a large magnetic entropy change in NaZn13-type La–Fe–Si compound

In NaZn13-type PrzLa1−z(Fe1−yCoy)11.8Si1.2 ( 0.07 < y < 0.09 , z = 0 – 0.4 ) compound, besides adjusting the phase transition temperature to room temperature after the substitutions of Pr for La and Co for Fe, the character of magnetic first-order phase transition is strongly reduced. Thus, the hysteresis losses hardly exist in these compounds. Meanwhile, a large magnetic entropy change about 13.6–15.7 J/(kg K), superior to that of Gd, is obtained in 0–5 T field change. So, these compounds are suitable candidates for magnetic refrigerant near room temperature.