Spin-flop transition and magnetic phase diagram in CaCo${}_2$As${}_2$ revealed by torque measurements

Abstract

The magnetic properties of CaCo${}_2$As${}_2$ single crystal was systematically studied by using dc magnetization and magnetic torque measurements. A paramagnetic to antiferromagnetic transition occurs at $T_N$ = 74 K with Co spins being aligned parallel to the c axis. For $H\parallel c$, a field-induced spin-flop transition was observed below $T_N$ and a magnetic transition from antiferromagnetic to paramagnetic was inferred from the detailed analysis of magnetization and magnetic torque. Finally, we summarize the magnetic phase diagram of CaCo${}_2$As${}_2$ based on our results in the \emph{H-T} plane.