Visualization of the local insulator-metal transition in Pr0.7Ca0. 3MnO3.

Fiebig, M; Miyano, K; Tomioka, Y; Tokura, Y · Science · 1998

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

The light-induced insulator-metal transition in the "colossal magnetoresistance" compound Pr0.7Ca0.3MnO3 is shown to generate a well-localized conducting path while the bulk of the sample remains insulating. The path can be visualized through a change of reflectivity that accompanies the phase transition. Its visibility provides a tool for gaining insight into electronic transport in materials with strong magnetic correlations. For example, a conducting path can be generated or removed at an arbitrary position just because of the presence of another path. Such manipulation may be useful in the construction of optical switches.