Magnetotransport properties of (La0.7Pb0.3MnO3)1−xAgx composites

Magnetic and transport properties of (La0.7Pb0.3MnO3)1−xAgx composites are explored in this study. Ferromagnetism is gradually attenuated due to the magnetic dilution with increase of Ag content percentage. Clearly irreversible behavior in the zero-field cooling and field cooling curves at a low field caused by the competition between the magnetization and magnetic domain orientation processes has been observed as x increases. Saturation magnetization decreases as x increases, while ferromagnetic transition temperature remains around 346 K for all composites. The resistivity decreases significantly for (La0.7Pb0.3MnO3)1−xAgx composites. It is suggested that introduction of Ag into the niche of grain boundaries forms artificial conducting network and improves the carriers to transport. However, enhancement of magnetoresistance has been observed for the system.