Phase Separation in Electronic Models for Manganites

The Kondo lattice Hamiltonian with ferromagnetic Hund’s coupling as a model for manganites is investigated. The classical limit for the spin of the (localized) t2g electrons is analyzed on lattices of dimension 1, 2, 3, and ‘ using several numerical methods. The phase diagram at low temperature is presented. A regime is identified where phase separation occurs between hole undoped antiferromagnetic and hole-rich ferromagnetic regions. Experimental consequences of this novel regime are discussed. Regions of incommensurate spin correlations have also been found. Estimations of the critical temperature in 3D are compatible with experiments. [S0031-9007(97)05072-2]