Magnetism in non-transition-metal doped CdS studied by density functional theory

The electronic structure of non-transition-metal element (Be, B, C, N, O and F)-doped CdS is studied based on spin-polarized density function theory within the generalized gradient approximation. Our results show that the substitutional Be, B and C for S in CdS induces spin polarized localized states in the gap or near the valence band and generates local magnetic moments 2.0 μB, 3.0 μB and 2.0 μB with one dopant atom, respectively. Whereas doping with N, O and F in CdS does not induce spin polarization. It is found the magnetic states in these systems are related to the difference between the electronegativities of the dopant and the anion in the host. Long-range ferromagnetic coupling may occur in Be, B and C-doped CdS, which can be explained by the p–d exchange-like p–p coupling interaction involving holes.

Research highlightsMagnetism in non-transition-metal element-doped CdS is studied. Magnetic states are related to the difference between the electronegativities of the dopant and S. Long-range ferromagnetic coupling attributes to p-p coupling interaction.