Sign reversal of magnetization in Mn substituted SmCrO₃

Single phase samples of orthorhombic SmCr_1−xMn_xO₃ compounds were prepared for x=0 to 0.50. Analysis of X-ray diffraction patterns shows a systematic increase in lattice parameters with increase in Mn concentration. The phenomenon of magnetization reversal is observed for x=0.10–0.30 samples with a maximum magnetic compensation temperature of 126 K. The mechanism of magnetization reversal is explained by considering the competition between the paramagnetic moments of Mn³⁺ and Sm³⁺ ions under the influence of negative internal field due to antiferromagnetically ordered Cr³⁺ ions and the canted ferromagnetic component of Cr³⁺ ions. For x≥0.40, the samples exhibit ferromagnetic like behavior. - Highlights: • Magnetization reversal in SmCr_1-xMnxO₃. • Spin reorientation transition at low temperature. • Magnitude of canted moment of Cr³⁺ ions decreases with increase in Mn content. • Compensation temperature decreases with increase in cooling field.