Open Access
December 28, 2021
Abstract
MnSb 2 Te 4 is a candidate magnetic topological insulator exhibiting more pronounced cation intermixing than its predecessor MnBi 2 Te 4 . Investigating the cation intermixing and its possible implications on the magnetic order in MnSb 2 Te 4 are currently hot topics in research on quantum materials for spintronics and energy-saving applications. Two single-crystal X-ray diffraction measurements of Mn 1− x Sb 2+ x Te 4 ( x = 0.06 and x = −0.1) are presented alongside a detailed discussion of its crystal structure with a spotlight on the apparent occupancy disorder between the two cations. This disorder has been noted by other groups as well, yet never been analyzed in-depth with single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The latter is the tool of choice to receive a meaningful quantification of antisite disorder. Between the two synthesis procedures we find subtle differences in phases and/or alternation of the cation content which has implications on the magnetic order, as illustrated by bulk magnetometry. Understanding and assessing this disorder in magnetic topological insulators of the MnX 2 Te 4 (X = Bi, Sb) type is crucial to gauge their applicability for modern spintronics. Furthermore, it opens new ways to tune the “chemical composition – physical property” relationship in these compounds, creating an alluring aspect also for fundamental science.