Oriented single crystals of RFe3(BO3)(4), with R = La or Nd, have been
studied by Raman spectroscopy. Spectra with the relevant polarization
configurations have been recorded in order to obtain the symmetry of
the observed phonons. The factor group analysis and the correlation wi
th the free (BO3)(3-) ion are done in order to identify most of the ph
onons associated with the two different types of (BO3)(3-) ion present
in the crystal. The number and symmetries of the optical Raman active
modes are 7A(1) + 19E, among which 4A(1) + 8E can be assigned as most
ly due to (BO3)(3-) vibrations. 7A(1) + 18E modes were observed.The hi
ghest energy peaks have been assigned to the regular planar (BO3)(3-)
and to the three irregular (BO3)(3-) groups. The two lowest energy pea
ks of A(1) symmetry (around 180 and 300 cm(-1)) are very probably rela
ted to the BO3 rotatory mode and to Fe displacements. R ions do not pa
rticipate in A(1) symmetry modes. The E mode around 90 cm(-1) (the low
est frequency mode) is probably due to the R ions which have the longe
st bonds and are the heaviest ions.