Self-similar field dependent curves for a Heusler alloy.

Abstract: Heusler alloys feature both regular and inverse magnetocaloric effects (MCE) near room temperature as they undergo two different transitions. A temperature scaling methodology to obtain self-similar field dependent curves for materials exhibiting one first-order transition has been previously presented. In this paper, this methodology is modified and extended to obtain self-similar curves for a Ni51Mn32.8In16.8 Heusler alloy undergoing two transitions near room temperature. Using this method, the collapsed curve reflects the cluster compositions in the mixed-state regions. The results of characterizing the dual transitions of Heusler alloys and establishing a new model will allow the data to be better analyzed and thus more easily predicted. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]