Novel RZn2Ga2 (R = La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Sm) intermetallic compounds with BaAl4-type structure

Novel RZn2Ga2 intermetallics with R = La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Sm have been synthesized and characterized with regards to their crystal structures and magnetic properties. The compounds form with a tetragonal structure of the BaAl4 type (space group I4/mmm). Except for LaZn2Ga2, they exhibit localised magnetism due to the presence of magnetic moments on the respective trivalent rare earth ions. The Pr-, Nd- and Sm-based compounds order antiferromagnetically at low temperatures with likely contribution of some ferromagnetic components.

Research highlights▶ Intermetallic RZn2Ga2 (R = La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Sm) compounds crystallize in tetragonal BaAl4-type structure. ▶ Unit cell volume of all gallides gradually decreases along the R series, just in agreement with the so-called lanthanide contraction mechanism. ▶ The Pr-, Nd- and Sm-based compounds order antiferromagnetically at low temperatures with likely contribution of some ferromagnetic components.