0955353_Shatruk

1. Changing Magnetic Behavior via Chemical CompressionMichael Shatruk, Florida State University, DMR 0955353 In 1998, Jeitschko et al. reported a fascinating paramagnet-antiferromagnet transition in EuCo2P2 under pressure. The change is due to a transition from the Eu2+ to Eu3+ state at 3.1 GPa that causes an electron transfer to the Co sublattice and its magnetic ordering. We now demonstrate that this physical pressure effect on the oxidation state of Eu can be reproduced via chemical compression by introducing Eu into a smaller cavity of antiferromagnetic PrCo2P2. Remarkably, Pr0.8Eu0.2Co2P2 differs drastically from both EuCo2P2 and PrCo2P2. The new material is a ferro-magnet with a mixed-valent Eu2.4+ state. These findings open new opportunities for the modification of magnetic properties of intermetallics by controlling their electronic structure.

2. Changing Magnetic Behavior via Chemical Compression Michael Shatruk, Florida State University, DMR 0955353 The project provides training for students and postdocs in the area of solid state chemistry, from various methods of synthesis to the instrumental methods used for materials characterization. Dr. Kirill Kovnir, a postdoc participant, has recently begun his independent career as an Assistant Professor of Chemistry at UC Davis. Undergraduate students and underrepresented groups are actively involved in the project activities. Ali Arico, Mitchell Herring, and Stephanie Eveland, joined the Shatruk group in their freshman year. There are already three publications co-authored by these undergraduate students.