Structural and magnetic properties of the quantum magnet BaCuTe2O6

We investigate the structural and magnetic properties of the quantum magnet BaCuTe2O6. This compound is synthesized in powder and single crystal form for the first time. Synchrotron x-ray and neutron diffraction reveal a cubic crystal structure (P4(1)32) where the magnetic Cu2+ ions form a complex network. Heat capacity and static magnetic susceptibility measurements suggest the presence of antiferromagnetic interactions with a Curie-Weiss temperature of approximate to- 33 K, while long-range magnetic order occurs at the much lower temperature of not approximate to 6.3 K. The magnetic structure, solved using neutron diffraction, reveals antiferromagnetic order along chains parallel to the a, b, and c crystal axes. This is consistent with the magnetic excitations which resemble the multispinon continuum typical of the spin-1/2 Heisenberg antiferromagnetic chain. A consistent intrachain interaction value of approximate to 34 K is achieved from the various techniques. Finally the magnetic structure provides evidence that the chains are coupled together in a noncollinear arrangement by a much weaker antiferromagnetic, frustrated hyperkagome interaction.

Automated summary

The quantum magnet BaCuTe2O6 exhibits a complex magnetic network in a cubic crystal structure. Antiferromagnetic interactions are present with a Curie-Weiss temperature of approximately -33 K, leading to long-range magnetic order at around 6.3 K. The magnetic structure reveals antiferromagnetic order along chains parallel to the crystal axes, with a consistent intrachain interaction value of about 34 K. Additionally, a weaker antiferromagnetic, frustrated hyperkagome interaction couples the chains in a noncollinear arrangement.