We theoretically study the effects of strong magnetoelastic coupling on the transport properties of magnetic insulators. We develop a Boltzmann transport theory for the mixed magnon-phonon modes ("magnon polarons") and determine transport coefficients and the spin diffusion length. Magnon-polaron formation causes anomalous features in the magnetic field and temperature dependence of the spin Seebeck effect when the disorder scattering in the magnetic and elastic subsystems is sufficiently different. Experimental data by Kikkawa [Phys. Rev. Lett. 117, 207203 (2016)PRLTAO0031-900710.1103/PhysRevLett.117.207203] on yttrium iron garnet films can be explained by an acoustic quality that is much better than the magnetic quality of the material. We predict similar anomalous features in the spin and heat conductivity and nonlocal spin transport experiments.

Sharp structures in the magnetic field-dependent spin Seebeck effect (SSE) voltages of Pt/Y3Fe5O12 at low temperatures are attributed to the magnon-phonon interaction. Experimental results are well reproduced by a Boltzmann theory that includes magnetoelastic coupling. The SSE anomalies coincide with magnetic fields tuned to the threshold of magnon-polaron formation. The effect gives insight into the relative quality of the lattice and magnetization dynamics.