Lattice dynamics and elastic properties of lanthanum monopnictides

In this study, first principles calculation results of the second order elastic constants and lattice dynamics of two lanthanum monopnictides, LaN and LaBi, which crystallize in rock-salt Structure (B1 phase), are presented. Calculations were based on plane wave basis sets and pseudo-potential methods in the framework of Density Functional Theory (DFT) with generalized gradient approximation. Elastic constants are calculated by tetragonal and orthorhombic distortions on cubic structure. Phonon dispersion spectra was constructed in the linear response approach of the Density Functional Perturbation Theory (DFPT). The complete phonon softening with negative frequencies and large elastic anisotropy were observed for LaN single crystal as a sign of the structural instability. The phonon dispersion curve for LaBi is typical for lanthanum monopnictides and does not show any anomalous physical property. The calculated structural quantities for both LaN and LaBi systems agree well with the available experimental and theoretical data. (c) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.