Disordered quantum spin state in the stripe lattice system consisting of triangular and square tilings

Abstract

Quantum fluctuations originating phase competition or geometrical frustration of spins lead to novel states such as a quantum critical point and a quantum spin liquid where the strong quantum fluctuations suppress any ordered states even at 0 K. Utilizing site-selective NMR for a quasi-two dimensional organic conductor $\lambda$-(STF)${}_2$GaCl${}_4$, we investigate the non-magnetic insulating phase of the stripe lattice system consisting of triangular and square tilings. We found development of AF spin fluctuations with decreasing temperature. Regardless of large enhancement of spin-lattice relaxation rate $1/T_1$ owing to critical slowing down below 10 K, no long-range magnetic ordering was observed down to 1.63 K two orders of magnitude less than the exchange interaction $J/k_{\mathrm{B}}\simeq$ 194 K. Moreover, $1/T_1$ saturated below 3.5 K. These results are in stark contrast to observed behaviors so far in other non-magnetic ground states discussed in terms of spin liquids, demonstrating realization of an exotic quantum state accompanying quantum criticality.

8 pages, 7 figures