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Published on: May 27, 2020
Spin-charge-lattice coupling in YBaCuFeO5: Optical properties and first-principles calculations
H W Chen1, Y-W Chen2, J-L Kuo2
1Department of Physics, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, 11677, Taiwan.
This study investigates YBaCuFeO5 single crystals, revealing optical band gaps and excitations. Anomalies in antiferromagnetic transitions and phonon modes suggest complex spin-charge-lattice interactions.
Area of Science:
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Materials Science
- Solid-State Chemistry
Background:
- YBaCuFeO5 is a multiferroic material with complex magnetic and electronic properties.
- Understanding its optical properties is crucial for exploring spin-charge-lattice coupling.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the optical properties of YBaCuFeO5 single crystals.
- To correlate optical findings with magnetic phase transitions and phonon behavior.
Main Methods:
- Spectroscopic ellipsometry and Raman scattering spectroscopy were employed.
- First-principles calculations were used to assign optical excitations.
Main Results:
- A direct optical band gap of ~1.41 eV and several absorption bands were identified.
- Anomalies in band gap temperature dependence at 455 K and 175 K indicate antiferromagnetic transitions.
- A hardening of the Eg phonon mode at 175 K and a spin-phonon coupling constant of 15.7 mRy/Ų were determined.
Conclusions:
- The study reveals intricate spin-charge-lattice interactions in YBaCuFeO5.
- Observed anomalies are linked to magnetic phase transitions and phonon behavior, highlighting material complexity.
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