Extraordinary Magnetomechanical Coupling as a Result of a Combined Magnetic Structural Transition in a New Class of Rare Earth Compound

The new class of $Gd_5(Si_xGe_{1-x})_4$ compounds undergoes a simultaneous magnetic/structural phase transition giving a high level of strain that can be induced either by change in temperature or by application of a magnetic field. Profound changes of structural, magnetic, and electronic changes occur in the $Gd_5(Si_xGe_{1-x})_4$ system lead to extreme behavior of the material such as the giant magnetocaloric effect, colossal magnetostriction, and giant magnetoresistance. These unique material characters can be utilized for various applications including magnetic solid refrigerants, sensors, and actuators.