Cation distribution in NiMn2O4 spinel probed by high temperature thermopower measurements

We report on measurements of the thermoelectric power of NiMn2O4 spinels over the temperature range from 100 degrees C up to 860 degrees C. The thermopower (Seebeck coefficient S) of samples with different thermal history (slow cooled or quenched from different temperatures) was measured upon heating up to the upper temperature of the spinel stability field in air and upon subsequent cooling in air. All samples exhibit a negative Seebeck coefficient at T < 680 degrees C, and a cross-over to p-type behavior is observed at higher temperature. Thermopower data were evaluated using the modified Heikes equation considering spin and orbital degeneracy, and the concentrations of Mn3+ and Mn4+ on octahedral position (B-site) were calculated. A model of the temperature-dependent cation distribution of NiMn2O4 was derived. The results are discussed in terms of cation redistribution kinetics and electron configurations of Mn ions. (C) 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

Measurements of the thermoelectric power of NiMn2O4 spinels were carried out over a temperature range from 100°C to 860°C, revealing temperature-dependent cation redistribution kinetics and electron configurations of Mn ions. The samples exhibited different thermoelectric properties based on their thermal history, with calculations of Mn3+ and Mn4+ concentrations at octahedral positions providing insights into the material's behavior. A model of temperature-dependent cation distribution for NiMn2O4 was derived from the results.