Structural design and multiple magnetic orderings of the intergrowth compound Eu${}_2$CuMn${}_2$P${}_3$

Abstract

We report the design, synthesis, crystal structure, and physical properties of a layered intergrowth compound, Eu${}_2$CuMn${}_2$P${}_3$. The structure of Eu${}_2$CuMn${}_2$P${}_3$ features an alternating arrangement of hexagonal EuCuP block layers and trigonal EuMn${}_2$P${}_2$ block layers, interconnected through shared Eu planes. This structural hybridization leads to multiple magnetic orderings in Eu${}_2$CuMn${}_2$P${}_3$: weak antiferromagnetic (AFM) ordering of Mn at $T_{\mathrm{N}}^{\mathrm{Mn}}$ = 80 K, AFM ordering of Eu at $T_{\mathrm{N}}^{\mathrm{Eu}}$ = 29 K, a spin-reorientation transition at $T_{\mathrm{SR}}$ = 14.5 K, and weak ferromagnetism below $T_{\mathrm{N}}^{\mathrm{Mn}}$. The spin configurations at different temperature regions were discussed based on the calculations of magnetic energies for various collinear arrangements. Resistivity measurements reveal a pronounced transition peak at $T_{\mathrm{N}}^{\mathrm{Eu}}$, which is suppressed in the presence of a magnetic field, resulting in a significant negative magnetoresistance effect. The computed semimetallic band structure, characterized by a small density of states at the Fermi level, aligns well with experimental observations. The successful synthesis of Eu${}_2$CuMn${}_2$P${}_3$ and its fascinating magnetic properties highlight the effectiveness of our block-layer design strategy. By assembling magnetic block layers of compounds with compatible crystal symmetries and closely matched lattice parameters, this approach opens exciting avenues for discovering layered materials with unique magnetic behaviors.