Leveraging 3d-4f Coordination: Molecular Quantum Spring-Magnet Behavior in Axial Ni₂Ln Complexes.

ABSTRACT: We report heterotrimetallic 3d-4f complexes, mimicking classical exchange spring magnets at the molecular scale. The complexes feature a linear Ni···Ln···Ni core, where the lanthanide ion is sandwiched between two Ni²⁺ centers coordinated by N₃O₃ ligand environments. The complexes are isostructural, while CASSCF calculations reveal collinear anisotropy axes and favorable electronic configurations for magnetic bistability in selected systems. Magnetic characterization via DC, AC, and µSQUID magnetometry down to 30 mK demonstrates slow magnetic relaxation and open hysteresis loops exclusively in Ni₂Tb, Ni₂Dy, and Ni₂Ho. These systems exhibit ferromagnetic 3d-4f coupling, while their isolated or antiferromagnetically coupled an

SUBMITTER: Jing Z 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12851015 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature