Ultrahigh Magnetic Field Phases in Frustrated Triangular-lattice Magnet CuCrO$_2$

TL;DR

This study explores the complex magnetic phases of CuCrO$_2$ under ultrahigh magnetic fields up to 120 T, revealing novel phases influenced by frustration, anisotropy, and thermal effects.

Contribution

It reports the discovery of a new up-up-down phase and proposes candidate phases near it, advancing understanding of high-field magnetic behavior in frustrated triangular-lattice antiferromagnets.

Findings

Observation of UUD phase around 90-105 T

Identification of Y-shaped and V-shaped phases

Insights into the interplay of frustration, anisotropy, and thermal fluctuations

Abstract

The magnetic phases of a triangular-lattice antiferromagnet, CuCrO$_2$, were investigated in magnetic fields along to the $c$ axis, $H$ // [001], up to 120 T. Faraday rotation and magneto-absorption spectroscopy were used to unveil the rich physics of magnetic phases. An up-up-down (UUD) magnetic structure phase was observed around 90--105 T at temperatures around 10 K. Additional distinct anomalies adjacent to the UUD phase were uncovered and the Y-shaped and the V-shaped phases are proposed to be viable candidates. These ordered phases are emerged as a result of the interplay of geometrical spin frustration, single ion anisotropy and thermal fluctuations in an environment of extremely high magnetic fields.