Magnetic anisotropy, first-order-like metamagnetic transitions and large negative magnetoresistance in the single crystal of Gd$_{2}$PdSi$_3$

TL;DR

This study investigates the magnetic and electronic properties of Gd$_{2}$PdSi$_3$ single crystals, revealing anisotropic behaviors, metamagnetic transitions, and significant negative magnetoresistance, expanding understanding of Gd-based intermetallics.

Contribution

First comprehensive report on anisotropic magnetic and transport properties, including metamagnetic transitions, in Gd$_{2}$PdSi$_3$ single crystals.

Findings

Reproducible resistivity minimum above T$_N$ in single crystals

Large negative magnetoresistance below 3T$_N$

Observation of two-step first-order-like metamagnetic transitions

Abstract

Electrical resistivity ($\rho$), magnetoresistance (MR), magnetization, thermopower and Hall effect measurements on the single crystal Gd$_{2}$PdSi$_3$, crystallizing in an AlB$_2$-derived hexagonal structure are reported. The well-defined minimum in $\rho$ at a temperature above N\'eel temperature (T$_N$= 21 K) and large negative MR below $\sim$ 3T$_N$, reported earlier for the polycrystals, are reproducible even in single crystals. Such features are generally uncharacteristic of Gd alloys. In addition, we also found interesting features in other data, e.g., two-step first-order-like metamagnetic transitions for the magnetic field along [0001] direction. The alloy exhibits anisotropy in all these properties, though Gd is a S-state ion.