Abstract
We report the magnetic and magnetocaloric properties of (0.95)La0.7Sr0.3MnO3/(0.05)Ni1-xZnxFe2O4 (x = 0.0, 0.1, 0.3, and 0.5) ceramic composites. The composite samples with nominal compositions were prepared using the conventional solid-state reaction method. The phase purity and structure were confirmed by using X-ray diffraction. Temperature dependent magnetization measurements and Arrott analysis reveal second order of magnetic phase transition in the composite samples. A maximum in magnetic entropy change of similar to 0.75 J/kg K at 1 T has been observed in (0.95)La0.7Sr0.3MnO3/(0.05)NiFe2O4 sample. The values of magnetic entropy change of these composites make them attractive for potential applications. These composite samples may consider as potential material for magnetic refrigeration near room temperature. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.