ThMnPnN (Pn = P, As): Synthesis, Structure, and Chemical Pressure Effects

Mn-based ZrCuSiAs-type pnictides ThMnPnN (Pn = P, As) containing PbO-type Th₂N₂ layers were synthesized. The crystal and magnetic structures are determined using X-ray and neutron powder diffraction. While neutron diffraction indicates a C-type antiferromagnetic state at 300 K, the temperature dependence of the magnetic susceptibility shows cusps at 36 and 52 K respectively for ThMnPN and ThMnAsN. The susceptibility cusps are ascribed to a spontaneous antiferromagnetic-to-antiferromagnetic transition for Mn²⁺ moments, which is observed for the first time in Mn-based ZrCuSiAs-type compounds. In addition, measurements of the resistivity and specific heat suggest an abnormal increase in the density of states at the Fermi energy. The result is discussed in terms of the internal chemical pressure effect.