Unconventional Dynamics in Triangular Heisenberg Antiferromagnet NaCrO2

TL;DR

This study investigates the magnetic properties of NaCrO2, a triangular Heisenberg antiferromagnet, revealing a transition around 40-46 K and persistent fluctuations below the transition, highlighting complex excitation dynamics.

Contribution

It provides comprehensive experimental insights into the magnetic behavior and fluctuations in NaCrO2, emphasizing its suitability for studying weakly coupled triangular antiferromagnets.

Findings

Transition observed at 40-46 K in magnetization and specific heat.

Persistent magnetic fluctuations detected below the transition temperature.

Peak relaxation rate at approximately 30 K indicating dynamic excitations.

Abstract

We report magnetization, specific heat, muon spin rotation and Na NMR measurements on the S=3/2 rhombohedrally stacked Heisenberg antiferromagnet NaCrO2. This compound appears to be an ideal candidate for the study of triangular Heisenberg antiferromagnets with very weak interlayer coupling. While specific heat and magnetization measurements indicate the occurrence of a transition in the range 40-46 K, both muon spin rotation and NMR reveal a fluctuating regime extending well below T_c, with a peak of relaxation rate 1/T1 around 30 K. This novel finding is discussed within the context of excitations in the triangular Heisenberg antiferromagnets.