Coupling of spin and lattice modes in the S=1/2 two-dimensional antiferromagnet K$_{2}$V$_{3}$O$_{8}$ with magneto-dielectric couplings

TL;DR

This study investigates the interplay between lattice vibrations and magnetic excitations in K$_2$V$_3$O$_8$, revealing lattice instabilities, soft phonon modes, and evidence of spin-lattice mode coupling affecting magneto-dielectric properties.

Contribution

It provides new insights into the coupling between spin and lattice modes in a quantum spin compound with magneto-dielectric effects, highlighting lattice instabilities and mode mixing.

Findings

Lattice instabilities at 110 K and 60 K indicated by phonon anomalies.

Observation of a soft mode at 26 cm$^{-1}$ in A$_1$ symmetry.

Unconventional double-peak structure in two-magnon excitations suggesting mode mixing.

Abstract

Lattice dynamics and magnetic excitations are investigated to elucidate the origin of magneto-dielectric effects in the S=1/2 two-dimensional quantum spin compound K$_2$V$_3$O$_8$. We find evidence for lattice instabilities at 110 K and 60 K as optical phonon anomalies and a soft mode at 26 cm$^{-1}$ in A$_1$ symmetry. Two-magnon excitations in B$_1$ symmetry show an unconventional double-peak structure and temperature dependence. This suggests the existence of a split mode near the zone boundary caused by a mixing of spin and lattice modes.