Exotic Magnetism and Spin-Orbit Assisted Mott Insulating State in a $3d-5d$ Double Perovskite

TL;DR

This study reveals that Ca$_2$MnReO$_6$ is a rare example of a spin-orbit assisted Mott insulator with complex magnetic order, driven by strong Re 5d spin-orbit coupling and modest Coulomb interactions.

Contribution

It demonstrates the existence of a spin-orbit assisted Mott insulating state in a 3d-5d double perovskite, expanding understanding beyond iridates.

Findings

Non-collinear Mn magnetic moments of 4.35 μB are orthogonal to Re moments of 0.22 μB.

Electronic structure calculations show Re 5d spin-orbit coupling induces insulating behavior.

The material exhibits remarkable magnetic properties due to spin-orbit effects.

Abstract

The magnetic structure of Ca$_2$MnReO$_6$ double perovskite is investigated by neutron powder diffraction and bulk magnetization, showing dominant non-collinear Mn magnetic moments [$4.35(7)$ $\mu_B$] that are orthogonally aligned with the small Re moments [$0.22(4)$ $\mu_B$]. $Ab$-initio electronic structure calculations show that the strong spin-orbit coupling for Re $5d$ electrons combined with a relatively modest on-site Coulomb repulsion ($U_{eff}^{Re} \gtrsim 0.6$ eV) is sufficient to render this material insulating. This is a rare example of spin-orbit assisted Mott insulator outside the realm of iridates, with remarkable magnetic properties.