Abstract
has been proposed as an ordered spin ice, but the precise nature of the low temperature magnetic state remains uncertain. Recent independent muon spin relaxation () investigations suggest the possibility of exotic ground states with static order precluded on time scales longer than . Here the more conventional hypothesis of canted ferromagnetism is tested by means of with the muons stopped outside the sample, as well as ultralow field bulk magnetization measurements. The field cooled state shows conventional static order, while the zero field cooled state may be interpreted in terms of conventional closed domains. These results rule out purely dynamical ground states and illustrate the value of exterior muon implantation as a complement to the conventional technique.
- Received 16 September 2008
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.101.237201
©2008 American Physical Society
Synopsis
Muons put a new spin on ice
Published 1 December 2008
An unconventional muon spin rotation experiment can determine if the magnetism in a spin ice is static or dynamic.
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