Finite-temperature properties of frustrated classical spins coupled to the lattice

Abstract

We present extensive Monte Carlo simulations for a classical antiferromagnetic Heisenberg model with both nearest ($J_1$) and next-nearest ($J_2$) exchange couplings on the square lattice coupled to the lattice degrees of freedom. The Ising-like phase transition, that appears for $J_2/J_1>1/2$ in the pure spin model, is strengthened by the spin-lattice coupling, and is accompanied by a lattice deformation from a tetragonal symmetry to an orthorhombic one. Evidences that the universality class of the transition does not change with the inclusion of the spin-lattice coupling are reported. Implications for $\mathrm{L}{\mathrm{i}}_2\mathrm{VOSi}{\mathrm{O}}_4$, the prototype for a layered $J_1-J_2$ model in the collinear regime, are also discussed.

6 pages and 8 figures