Magnetoelastic interactions in Raman spectra of Ho1−xNdxFe3(BO3)4 crystals

• The Raman spectrum and lattice dynamics modifications during magnetic ordering.
• The high lattice sensitivity due to the magnetic ordering.
• Large magnetoelectric effect in structure containing rare-earth elements was observed.

Raman scattering spectra of Ho1−xNdxFe3(BO3)4 (x=0, x=0.22) crystals have been studied within 10–400 K temperature range. Structural phase transition was found under cooling at 366 K and 203 K respectively. Considerable modification in Raman spectra of the mixed crystal was found to be induced by magnetic ordering below Neel temperature. Results are interpreted using empirical simulation of crystal lattice dynamics and Raman intensities.