In a groundbreaking development that could revolutionize the energy sector, researchers have discovered a way to manipulate the crystallographic orientation of lightweight alloys to achieve an unprecedented range of negative thermal expansion (NTE). This innovation, published in the journal Materials Research Letters, could lead to more efficient and durable materials for various industrial applications, particularly in energy storage and management.
At the heart of this discovery is the AlFe2B2-based alloy, specifically the Al0.9Ge0.1Fe2B2 composition. Led by Xuefei Miao from the School of Materials Science and Engineering at Nanjing University of Science and Technology in China, the research team has successfully introduced a <001> crystallographic texture in these alloys using a directional-solidification method. This process results in a macroscopic NTE coefficient of −16.2 × 10−6 K−1 over an impressive temperature range of 211 K, spanning from 120 to 331 K. This is the largest ΔTNTE ever recorded among NTE magnetic alloys, according to Miao.
Negative thermal expansion is a phenomenon where materials contract upon heating rather than expanding. This property is highly sought after in the energy sector for its potential to enhance the performance and longevity of various components. For instance, materials with NTE can help mitigate thermal stresses in energy storage systems, leading to more reliable and efficient operations.
The significance of this discovery lies not only in the wide temperature range of NTE but also in the lightweight nature of the Al1-xGexFe2B2 alloys. With a density of just 5.69 g/cm3, these alloys are among the lightest NTE magnetic alloys known to date. This combination of lightweight and wide-temperature-range NTE opens up new possibilities for designing energy-efficient and durable materials.
“The potential applications of these alloys are vast,” Miao explained. “From improving the thermal management in batteries to enhancing the performance of magnetic refrigeration systems, the possibilities are endless.”
The implications for the energy sector are profound. As the demand for renewable energy sources continues to grow, so does the need for advanced materials that can withstand the rigors of energy storage and conversion. The AlFe2B2-based alloys, with their unique NTE properties, could play a crucial role in meeting this demand.
Looking ahead, this research paves the way for further exploration into the manipulation of crystallographic orientations to achieve desired thermal expansion properties. As Miao and his team continue to refine their methods, we can expect to see even more innovative materials emerging from their lab. The future of energy storage and management is looking brighter, thanks to these lightweight, high-performance alloys.
The findings were published in the journal Materials Research Letters, which is known in English as ‘Materials Research Letters’. This research not only advances our understanding of NTE but also sets the stage for future developments in the field of materials science and engineering. As industries strive for greater efficiency and sustainability, innovations like these will be instrumental in shaping the future of energy technology.
