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Cobalt-based pyroxenes: A new playground for Kitaev physics
Pavel A Maksimov1,2, Alexey V Ushakov2, Andrey F Gubkin2,3
1Bogolyubov Laboratory of Theoretical Physics, Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, Dubna, Moscow region 141980, Russia.
We explored magnetic interactions in SrCoGeO using neutron scattering and theory. Pyroxenes show promise as a platform for Kitaev physics, offering new avenues for research.
Area of Science:
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Materials Science
- Quantum Magnetism
Background:
- Cobaltites are investigated for Kitaev physics in honeycomb systems and Ising models.
- Pyroxene materials offer a unique structural basis for exploring complex magnetic phenomena.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the magnetic properties of pyroxene SrCoGeO.
- To determine the key magnetic interactions governing the material's behavior.
- To assess the potential of pyroxenes as a platform for Kitaev physics.
Main Methods:
- Inelastic neutron scattering (INS) powder spectra analysis.
- Ab initio calculations and linear spin-wave theory.
- Heat capacity measurements under an external magnetic field.
Main Results:
- A modified Kitaev model, specifically an extended Kitaev-Heisenberg model with anisotropic exchange, accurately describes the magnetic interactions.
- The twisted chains of edge-sharing octahedra around Co ions are crucial.
- A field-induced transition from antiferromagnetic ordering to a new state was observed around 13 T.
Conclusions:
- SrCoGeO exhibits magnetic interactions well-described by an extended Kitaev-Heisenberg model.
- Pyroxenes, especially with Si substitution, are identified as a promising platform for realizing the Kitaev model.
- This work advances the understanding of Kitaev physics in novel material systems.
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