Microstructure and magnetoresistance effect of Fe–Ag granular films without any heat treatment

Fe–Ag granular films were prepared using magnetron sputtering. The magnetoresistance value of Fe–Ag film prepared at the sputtering pressure of 0.1 Pa is about 24% at room temperature. X-ray diffraction and vibrating sample magnetometer measurement indicate that some magnetic particles were separated from the Fe–Ag supersaturated solid solution without any heat treatment. The phase separation and the stronger texture of film may result in the higher giant magnetoresistance value.