Zero thermal expansion in NaZn13-type La(Fe,Si)13 compounds

Abstract

A zero thermal expansion material in a pure form of NaZn₁₃-type La(Fe,Si)₁₃ was fabricated. Through optimizing the chemical composition, an isotropic zero thermal expansion material is achieved. The obtained materials exhibit a low expansion of |α| < 1.0 × 10⁻⁶ K⁻¹ (α is the coefficient of linear thermal expansion) over a broad temperature range (15–150 K). The present study indicates that the thermal expansion behavior of the NaZn₁₃-type La(Fe,Si)₁₃ compounds depends mainly on the content of Si element. This new material is desirable in many fields of industry as a reliable and low-cost zero thermal expansion material.