Magnetic properties and magnetocaloric effect (MCE) in the Er₂BaNi_1−xZn_xO₅ oxides

The magnetocaloric effect (MCE) in various rare earth-based magnetic materials have been well investigated not only due to its potential applications for low-temperature magnetic refrigeration but also for understanding the inherent properties of these materials. Herein, we fabricated the Er₂BaNi_1−xZn_xO₅ oxides and experimentally investigated their crystal structure, microstructure, magnetic properties, and MCE. All the present studied Er₂BaNi_1−xZn_xO₅ oxides crystallize in a RE-211 type structure (space group of Pnma) and undergo second-order type magnetic transition within the present measured temperature and magnetic field regions. Considerable low-temperature MCEs were observed in present Er₂BaNi_1−xZn_xO₅ oxides which were identified by the parameters of magnetic entropy changes, temperature-averaged entropy changes, and relative cooling powers. The present work indicates that the Er₂BaNi_1−xZn_xO₅ oxides are considerable for low-temperature magnetic refrigeration.