Critical behavior and magnetic entropy change in the La0.6Sr0.4Mn0.8Fe0.1Cr0.1O3 perovskite

Critical behavior in the La0.6Sr0.4Mn0.8Fe0.1Cr0.1O3 ceramics was studied using magnetization methods. Results show that the paramagnetic–ferromagnetic transition is of second order. Based on the critical behavior analysis using the Banerjee criterion and the Kouvel–Fisher method, we find the critical exponents: β=0.395±0.010, γ=1.402±0.010, and δ=5.208±0.007, for which the magnetic interaction is satisfied within the three-dimensional Heisenberg model. Results indicate the presence of short-range interactions. The magnetic entropy change (−ΔSM) reached maximum values of 1.75, 1.45, 1.15, 0.8 and 0.43 J Kg−1 K−1 under a magnetic field variation of 5, 4, 3, 2 and 1 T, respectively. Nevertheless, these (−ΔSM) values are much low for any potential application at this moment. The nature of this phenomenon is discussed in relation to the characteristics of the magnetic phase transition and critical exponents. - Highlights: ► Results show that the paramagnetic–ferromagnetic transition is of second order. ► We find that the critical exponents are satisfied within the 3D Heisenberg model. ► Results indicate the presence of short-range interactions. ► The magnetic entropy change values are much low for any potential application. ► The nature of this phenomenon is discussed in relation to the critical exponents.