Anisotropic magnetoelectric transport in AgCrSe2 single crystals

Abstract

AgCrSe2, a quasi-two-dimensional material, is famous for its superionic conducting. Here, it is confirmed that the anisotropic behaviors exist in the magnetic, electronic, and magneto-transport properties of the AgCrSe2 single crystal. A field induced phase transition causes asymmetrical antiferromagnetic states in the μ0 H//ab plane and the c axis, which correspond to the positive/negative magnetoresistances in two directions, respectively. Below ∼32 K, a spin flop is manifested with a magnetic field of about 4 T, according to the field dependent electoral resistance. The anisotropic behaviors are ascribed to the quasi-two-dimensional structure and also to the unstable Ag+ ions and the puckered honeycomb lattice of Cr3+ ions. This research reveals fundamental transport properties in AgCrSe2 single crystals and can be explored further in superionic conductor engineering.