Magnetic and electronic properties of Eu$_5$In$_2$Sb$_6$

TL;DR

This study explores the magnetic, electronic, and thermodynamic properties of Eu$_5$In$_2$Sb$_6$, revealing complex magnetic interactions, anisotropic behaviors, and potential topological features in this antiferromagnetic Zintl phase compound.

Contribution

It provides a detailed experimental analysis of Eu$_5$In$_2$Sb$_6$, highlighting polaron formation, anisotropic properties, and complex magnetic interactions, which are novel insights into this compound's behavior.

Findings

Polaron formation occurs above magnetic ordering temperatures.

Pronounced anisotropies in magnetic and transport properties.

Complex and competing magnetic interactions are identified.

Abstract

The intermetallic compound Eu$_5$In$_2$Sb$_6$, an antiferromagnetic material with nonsymmorphic crystalline structure, is investigated by magnetic, electronic transport and specific heat measurements. Being a Zintl phase, insulating behavior is expected. Our thermodynamic and magnetotransport measurements along different crystallographic directions strongly indicate polaron formation well above the magnetic ordering temperatures. Pronounced anisotropies of the magnetic and transport properties even above the magnetic ordering temperature are observed despite the Eu$^{2+}$ configuration which testify to complex and competing magnetic interactions between these ions and give rise to intricate phase diagrams discussed in detail. Our results provide a comprehensive framework for further detailed study of this multifaceted compound with possible nontrivial topology.