Resistivity of Mixed-Phase Manganites

Abstract

The resistivity $ρ_{dc}$ of manganites is studied using a random-resistor-network, based on phase-separation between metallic and insulating domains. When percolation occurs, both as chemical composition and temperature vary, results in good agreement with experiments are obtained. Similar conclusions are reached using quantum calculations and microscopic considerations. Above the Curie temperature, it is argued that ferromagnetic clusters should exist in Mn-oxides. Small magnetic fields induce large $ρ_{dc}$ changes and a bad-metal state with (disconnected) insulating domains.