Magnetic field induced slow magnetic relaxation in KEr(MoO₄)₂

The spin dynamics of a layered magnetic insulator, KEr(MoO₄)₂, have been investigated in a magnetic field applied along the easy axis at temperatures where the magnetism is dominated by the occupation of a ground doublet. More specifically, the DC magnetization and AC susceptibility were studied in magnetic fields up to 5 T and at temperatures ranging from 1.8 to 20 K. The temperature dependence of the AC susceptibility suggests a slowing down of magnetic relaxation with increasing magnetic field. The magnetic field dependence of the AC susceptibility, studied at nominally 2 K, indicates the presence of low-field, intermediate-field, and high- field regimes characterized by the interplay of internal and external magnetic fields that give rise to different relaxation processes.