Mechanism of reversible photo-induced magnetization in Prussian blue analogues

Photo-induced magnetic phase transitions observed in Co-Fe Prussian blue analogues are discussed from a theoretical point of view. In this material a magnetization is induced by visible light, and the induced magnetization can be completely diminished not only by thermal annealing but also by irradiation of infra red light. After a brief survey of relevant experiments, we present an overview of our theoretical approaches to clarify the underlying mechanism of this interesting phenomenon. The ligand field at the Co site is shown to be the most relevant variable controlling spin states. The presence of Fe vacancies and the resultant ligand substitution by water molecules turns to be an essential prerequisite for the photoinduced magnetization.