The magnetoresistance in GdNi: Magnetic-polaronic-like effect near Curie temperature and low temperature sign reversal

Abstract

The results of magnetoresistance ($\Delta \rho /\rho$)measurements in GdNi, in the temperature range 4.2 to 300 K are reported. The sign of $\Delta \rho /\rho $ above the Curie temperature (Tc= 70 K) is negative and its magnitude in a magnetic field of 80kOe grows with decreasing temperature below 150 K with a peak value of about -20% at Tc. These features, qualitatively resembling those in giant magnetoresistance systems (manganates), are attributed to the formation of some kind of magnetic polarons induced by Gd. The magnetoresistance changes sign below 12 K which is attributed to subtle band structure effects.