Magnetism of SrM3P4O14 (M2+ = 3d Ions) investigated using neutron-scattering measurements

The substances Sr M 3 P 4 O 14 ( M = Mn, Fe, Co or Ni) have the same crystal structure. However, the magnetism of SrMn 3 P 4 O 14 differs qualitatively from that of the other substances. We determined the magnetic structures of Sr M 3 P 4 O 14 ( M = Mn or Co) by using neutron powder diffraction measurements. The spin system in SrMn 3 P 4 O 14 can be regarded as a trimerized spin chain, which is consistent with the spin system inferred from the crystal structure and the appearance of the 1/3 quantum magnetization plateau. The spin system in SrCo 3 P 4 O 14 is not a trimerized spin chain.