Colossal-magnetoresistive manganite thin films

Abstract

Mixed-valence perovskite manganites (Re$_{1-x}$A$_{x}$MnO$_{3}$ where Re=rare\nearth, A=alkaline earth) provide a unique opportunity to study the\nrelationships between the structure and the magnetotransport properties due to\nan interplay among charge carriers, magnetic coupling, orbital ordering and\nstructural distortion. This makes these compounds very exciting from both the\nbasic research and from the technological view point. As the technology pursued\nwith these materials requires film growth, extensive studies have been made on\nmaterials synthesis, structural and physical characterization and device\nfabrication. In this article, the results of the different experimental\ntechniques and the effects of the deposition procedure of the manganite thin\nfilms are first reviewed. Second, the relation between the structural and the\nphysical properties mentioned, and the influence of strains discussed.\\\nFinally, possible applications of manganite thin films for spin electronics are\npresented.\n