Cu2Mn1−xCoxSnS4: Novel kësterite type solid solutions

A new family of Cu2Mn1−xCoxSnS4 chalcogenides has been synthesized by conventional solid-state reactions at 850 °C. The reactions products were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (SEM-EDS), Raman spectroscopy and magnetic susceptibility. The crystal structures of two members of the solid solution series Cu2Mn0.4Co0.6SnS4 and Cu2Mn0.2Co0.8SnS4 have been determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Both phases crystallize in the tetragonal kësterite-type structure (space group I4¯). The distortions of the tetrahedral volume of Cu2Mn0.4Co0.6SnS4 and Cu2Mn0.2Co0.8SnS4 were calculated and compared with the corresponding differences in the Cu2MnSnS4 (stannite-type) end-member. The compounds show nearly the same Raman spectral features. Temperature-dependent magnetization measurements (ZFC/FC) and high-temperature susceptibility indicate that these solid solutions are antiferromagnetic.

View along [100] of the Cu2Mn1−xCoxSnS4 structure showing tetrahedral units and magnetic measurement ZFC–FC at 500 Oe. The insert shows the 1/χ-versus-temperature plot fitted by a Curie–Weiss law.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► Cu2Mn1−xCoxSnS4 solid solutions belong to the family of compounds adamantine.
► Resolved single crystals of the solid solutions have space group I4¯.
► The distortion of the tetrahedral volume of Cu2Mn1−xCoxSnS4 were calculated.
► These solid solutions are antiferromagnetic.