Synthesis and physical properties of antiperovskite-type compound In0.95CNi3

The compound In0.95CNi3 has been synthesized and the basic properties have been investigated. It has the typical antiperovskite structure (space group Pm3m, lattice parameter 3.7836 Å). The electronic specific coefficient γ and Debye temperature ΘD are found to be 14.1 mJ/mol K2 and 372 K, respectively. It behaves as a ferromagnetic metal below the Curie temperature (577 K). The emergence of ferromagnetism is suggested to originate from the deviation of the Ni/In atomic ratio from the ideal stoichiometry. The possible mechanisms have been discussed in detail in terms of this deviation.