A new ferromagnetic semiconductor system of Eu$_{1-x}$Sr$_x$AgP $(x = 0.0-0.6)$ compounds: Crystallographic, magnetic, and magneto-resistive properties

TL;DR

This study synthesizes and characterizes Sr-doped EuAgP, revealing how doping influences its structural, magnetic, and magnetoresistive properties, including phase transitions and tunable magnetoresistance effects.

Contribution

It provides the first detailed resistivity and magnetic phase diagram for Eu$_{1-x}$Sr$_x$AgP, demonstrating doping-induced modifications in physical properties and uncovering novel magnetoresistance phenomena.

Findings

Suppression of ferromagnetic transition with Sr doping

Observation of both positive and negative magnetoresistance

Establishment of resistivity and magnetic phase diagrams

Abstract

Adjusting chemical pressure through doping is a highly effective method for customizing the chemical and physical properties of materials, along with their respective phase diagrams, thereby uncovering novel quantum phenomena. Here, we successfully synthesized Sr-doped Eu$_{1-x}$Sr$_x$AgP $(x = 0.0-0.6)$ and conducted a comprehensive investigation involving crystallography, magnetization, heat capacity, and magnetoresistance. Utilizing X-ray diffraction and PPMS DynaCool measurements, we studied Eu$_{1-x}$Sr$_x$AgP in detail. The hexagonal structure of parent EuAgP at room temperature, with the $P6_3/mmc$ space group, remains unaltered, while the lattice constants expand. The magnetic phase transition from paramagnetism to ferromagnetism, as temperature decreases, is suppressed through the gradual introduction of strontium doping. Heat capacity measurements reveal a shift from magnon-dominated to predominantly phonon and electron contributions near the ferromagnetic phase with increasing doping levels. The resistivity-temperature relationship displays distinct characteristics, emphasizing the impact of Sr doping on modifying charge transport. Magnetoresistance measurements uncover novel phenomena, illustrating the adjustability of magnetoresistance through Sr doping. Notably, Sr doping results in both positive magnetoresistance (up to 20\%) and negative magnetoresistance (approximately -60\%). The resistivity and magnetic phase diagram were established for the first time, revealing the pronounced feasibility of Sr doping in modulating EuAgP's resistivity. This study has provided valuable insights into the intricate interplay between structural modifications and diverse physical properties. The potential for technological advancements and the exploration of novel quantum states make Sr-doped Eu$_{1-x}$Sr$_x$AgP a compelling subject for continued research in the field of applied physics.