Quantum magnetism and quantum phase transitions

Abstract:

Rare-earth oxides have attracted interest as a platform for studying frustrated magnetism arising from bond-dependent anisotropic interactions. Ordered rock salt compounds Na₂PrO₃ crystallize in two polymorphs (α and β) comprising honeycomb and hyperhoneycomb lattices of octahedrally coordinated Pr⁴⁺ (4f¹). Although possible realization of antiferromagnetic Kitaev interactions is anticipated for these phases on the basis of ab initio models, the air sensitivity of the two polymorphs has hampered reliable crystal growth and physical property measurements. Here, we have succeeded in preparing powder and single crystals of both α- and β-Na₂PrO₃ using modified synthetic procedures. Revised crystal structures for both polymorphs are obtained from refinement of untwinned single-crystal X-ray diffraction data.