Large reversible magnetostriction and improved mechanical properties in epoxy-reinforced MnCoSi1-xGex cast ingots

Textured MnCoSi-based bulks, prepared by high-magnetic-field-solidification technique, are considered to be promising magnetostrictive materials for the large anisotropic lattice distortions during the metamagnetic transition. Here, we demonstrate that these magnetostrictive bulks can be obtained easily by vacuum-impregnating and solidifying a small amount of epoxy in the cracks of the naturally textured cast ingot. Large reversible magnetostriction effects and improved mechanical properties were observed in the epoxy-reinforced MnCo(Si,Ge) cast ingots under relatively low field at room temperature. Compared with the high-magnetic-field-solidification, epoxy-reinforcing has the features of low equipment requirement, low energy/time consumption, and high feasibility. •A simple, economy and effective way of preparing MnCoSi-based magnetostrictive bulks.•Remarkably improved mechanical performance after epoxy-reinforcing.•Large reversible magnetostriction under relatively low field at room temperature.