Gd(iii)-Based inorganic polymers, metal–organic frameworks and coordination polymers for magnetic refrigeration

Abstract

As alternatives to the expensive and increasing shortage of ³He for ultralow-temperature refrigeration, molecule-based magnetorefrigerant materials have attracted much attention in past decades. Among these, Gd(III)-based inorganic polymers, metal–organic frameworks, and coordination polymers with large magnetic densities and weak magnetic interactions have become a research focus. In this review, the synthesis, structures, and magnetism of Gd(III)-based inorganic polymers, metal–organic frameworks, and coordination polymers based on various inorganic and organic ligands are summarized and discussed, with an emphasis on the synthetic strategy towards molecular magnetorefrigerants with good stability and a large magnetocaloric effect. In addition, the conclusions and perspectives for Gd(III)-based magnetorefrigerants are presented and new insights for the further development of this promising area. Therefore, this review should serve as a tutorial for newcomers as well as a summary of the research progress in the field of magnetic refrigeration.