Structural, electronic and magnetic properties of ConRh (n=1-8) clusters from density functional calculations

The geometries, stabilities, electronic and magnetic properties of Co_nRh (n=1-8) clusters have been investigated systematically within the framework of the generalized gradient approximation density-functional theory. The results indicate that the most stable structures of Co_nRh (n=1-8) clusters are all similar to those of corresponding Co_n+1 clusters. Maximum peaks of second-order energy difference are found at n=2, 4 and 7, indicating that these clusters possess relatively higher stability than their respective neighbors. The magnetism of the ground state of alloy clusters all displays ferromagnetic coupling except for Co₃Rh. In addition, the doped Rh atom exhibits an important influence on the magnetism of alloy clusters, e.g., compared with corresponding pure Co_n clusters, the local moment of Co atom is noticeably enhanced in Co_nRh alloy clusters at n=1, 2, 5, 6, 7 and 8, while reduced at n=3 and 4. Further analysis based on the average bond length, the charge transfer and the spin polarization has been made to clarify the different magnetic responses to Rh doping.