Physical properties of layer-type MPS3 compounds: M0.5In0.33PS3 (M = Cd, Fe, Mn)

Cd0.5In0.33PS3, Fe0.5In0.33PS3, Mn0.5In0.33PS3, and compounds have been syn thesized by ceramic method at 923 K. These compounds were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), differen tial thermal and thermogravimetric analyses (DTA/TG), energy dispersive X-r ay (EDX), magnetic susceptibility measurements and electrochemical impedanc e spectroscopy. The antiferromagnetic interactions present in the phases MP S,, are attenuated in the mixed phases M0.5In0.33PS3. This is explained by the larger separation of the ions M2+ in the mixed phase and therefore by a decrease of the magnetic interaction. The limit phase FePS3 is the more co nductive one among the MPS3 compounds. This tendency is maintained in the s tudied mixed phases. Thus, the phase Fe0.5In0.33PS3 shows an electrical con ductivity of sigma = 3.0 X 10(-8) S/cm at room temperature. (C) 2001 Elsevi er Science B.V. All rights reserved.