Physical properties of layer-type MPS3 compounds:: M0.5In0.33PS3 (M = Cd, Fe, Mn)

Cd0.5In0.33PS3, Fe0.5In0.33PS3, Mn0.5In0.33PS3, and compounds have been synthesized by ceramic method at 923 K. These compounds were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), differential thermal and thermogravimetric analyses (DTA/TG), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), magnetic susceptibility measurements and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The antiferromagnetic interactions present in the phases MPS,, are attenuated in the mixed phases M0.5In0.33PS3. This is explained by the larger separation of the ions M2+ in the mixed phase and therefore by a decrease of the magnetic interaction. The limit phase FePS3 is the more conductive one among the MPS3 compounds. This tendency is maintained in the studied mixed phases. Thus, the phase Fe0.5In0.33PS3 shows an electrical conductivity of sigma = 3.0 X 10(-8) S/cm at room temperature. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.