Optical and magnetic properties of the La_0.7RE_0.1Ca_0.2CrO₃ (RE = Nd, Sm and Eu) orthochromite for optoelectronic and magnetic applications

The orthochromites La0.7RE0.1Ca0.2CrO3 (RE = Nd,Sm, and Eu) were prepared by solid-state reaction and the structural, microstructural, optical, and magnetic properties were investigated. The XRD revealed an orthorhombic perovskite structure. The UV-visible revealed the bandgap energy values: 2.81, 2.98, and 3.12 eV for Nd, Sm, and Eu doped samples, respectively. It is explained by the creation of the localized state. The refractive index, Urbach energy, and optical conductivity were investigated. The magnetization investigation revealed that the Ne ' el temperature decreases with decreasing substituting ionic radius. Below TN, all samples exhibit weak ferromagnetic behavior due to the t-e hybridization caused by intrinsic distortions. The Nd and Sm doped samples show spin reorientation due to the exchange interaction between the Sm3+/Nd(3+)and Cr3+. The negative magnetization of the Nd-doped sample indicates its possible use as a volatile memory device. Regarding the E-g values, our samples could be suitable candidates for optoelectronic devices.