Synthesis and physical properties of antiperovskite-type compound In0.95CNi3

The compound In_0.95CNi₃ has been synthesized and the basic properties have been investigated. It has the typical antiperovskite structure (space group Pm3m, lattice parameter 3.7836 Å). The electronic specific coefficient γ and Debye temperature Θ_D are found to be 14.1 mJ/mol K² and 372 K, respectively. It behaves as a ferromagnetic metal below the Curie temperature (577 K). The emergence of ferromagnetism is suggested to originate from the deviation of the Ni/In atomic ratio from the ideal stoichiometry. The possible mechanisms have been discussed in detail in terms of this deviation.