Heat capacity jumps induced by magnetic field in the Er₂HoAl₅O₁₂ garnet

Measurements of the heat capacity were carried out for the mixed Er₂HoAl₅O₁₂ garnet at magnetic fields up to 15 T. The heat capacity variations at low temperatures were dominated by the Schottky anomalies. In addition, anomalous sharp steps in the heat capacity were observed in magnetic fields stronger than 8 T upon cooling as well as upon warming. The temperatures of the steps increased with increasing magnetic field. Jumps found upon cooling and warming were shifted relative to each other showing the thermal hysteresis. The sharp decrease in the heat capacity at low temperatures suggested the blocking of magnetic flips induced by strong enough magnetic fields. - Highlights: • Anomalous steps of the heat capacity were observed in the Er₂HoAl₅O₁₂ garnet. • The steps are induced by magnetic field at low temperatures. • The temperatures of the steps increased with increasing magnetic field. • The steps show a pronounced thermal hysteresis. • The findings suggest the blocking of the magnetic moment flips at field.