First-principles prediction of half-metallic ferromagnetism in Cd(TM)O2 (TM=Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni) compounds

We report the electronic structure of Cd(TM)O2 (TM=Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni) in the chalcopyrite structures. From this study we find that Cd(TM)O2 is a half-metallic ferromagnetic compound. From the energy consideration we find that Cd(TM)O2 is more stable in chalcopyrite structure rather than in rock salt structure. A careful analysis of the spin density reveals the ferromagnetic coupling between the p–d states and the cation dangling-bond p states, which is believed to be responsible for the stabilization of the ferromagnetic phase. The calculated heat of formation, bulk modulus and cohesive energy are reported.