Magnetic anisotropy and entropy change in trigonal Cr$_{0.62}$Te

Abstract

We present a comprehensive investigation on anisotropic magnetic and magnetocaloric properties of the quasi-two-dimensional weak itinerant ferromagnet trigonal Cr$_{0.62}$Te single crystals. Magnetic-anisotropy-induced satellite transition $T^*$ is observed at low fields applied parallel to the $ab$ plane below $T_c$. The $T^*$ is featured by an anomalous magnetization downturn, similar to that in structurally related CrI$_3$, and shows a monotonous shift towards lower temperature with increasing field. Magnetocrystalline anisotropy is also reflected in magnetic entropy change $\Delta S_M(T,H)$ and relative cooling power RCP. Given the high $T_c$, Cr$_{0.62}$Te crystals are materials of interest for nanofabrication in basic science and applied technology.