Off-Diagonal dipolar interactions in the mixed Ising--XY magnet $LiHo_{x}Er_{1-x}F_4$

Abstract

We theoretically investigate the influence of off-diagonal dipolar interactions in the mixed-anisotropy magnet $LiHo_{x}Er_{1-x}F_4$. Motivated by experimental observations showing an unexpectedly rapid suppression of the ferromagnetic transition temperature $T_c$ upon substitution of Ho by Er ions, we use Monte Carlo simulations incorporating off-diagonal dipolar terms to elucidate the underlying physical mechanism. Our results reveal that, unlike in the diluted magnet $LiHo_{x}Y_{1-x}F_4$, where dilution weakens the effect of these interactions, substitution by planar Er ions amplifies it. This leads to a pronounced reduction of $T_c$, closely matching experimental data, thereby resolving discrepancies with mean-field predictions. The findings underscore the essential role of off-diagonal dipolar interactions in determining the magnetic properties of mixed-anisotropy dipolar systems.