Spin dependent electron-phonon interaction in SmFeAsO by low-temperature Raman spectroscopy

TL;DR

This study uses low-temperature Raman spectroscopy to reveal strong spin-dependent electron-phonon interactions in SmFeAsO, providing insights into the coupling mechanisms relevant for high-temperature superconductivity in iron arsenides.

Contribution

It demonstrates the direct observation of spin fluctuation and phonon coupling in SmFeAsO, highlighting the role of spin-dependent electron-phonon interactions in pnictides.

Findings

Anomalous zone-boundary-phonon Raman scattering observed below antiferromagnetic transition

Evidence of spin-dependent electron-phonon coupling in SmFeAsO

Implications for understanding high-temperature superconductivity mechanisms

Abstract

The interplay between spin dynamics and lattice vibration has been suggested as an important part of the puzzle of high-temperature superconductivity. Here we report the strong interaction between spin fluctuation and phonon in SmFeAsO, a parent compound of the iron arsenide family of superconductors, revealed by low-temperature Raman spectroscopy. Anomalous zone-boundary-phonon Raman scattering from spin superstructure was observed at temperatures below the antiferromagnetic ordering point, which offers compelling evidence on spin dependent electron-phonon coupling in pnictides.