Crystal Structures and Magnetic Properties of the Two Misfit Layer Compounds: [SrGd0.5S1.5]1.16 NbS2 and [Sr(Fe,Nb)0.5S1.5]1.13 NbS2

Crystal structures of two new misfit compounds, [SrGd_0.5S_1.5]_1.16NbS₂ and [Sr(Fe,Nb)_0.5S_1.5]_1.13NbS₂, were determined through the composite approach, i.e., by refining each subpart (Q, H-parts, and the common part) of these composite materials, separately. The Q-part is a three-atom-thick layer, with the NaCl-type structure, where external SrS planes enclose the inner GdS or (Fe,Nb)S plane; the structural difference between these two compounds lies in the central layer within the Q-part: Gd and S atoms are in special positions (octahedral coordination), while Fe and S atoms are statistically distributed on split (×4) positions (tetrahedral coordination) around a central unique site (=special position occupied by Nb). The H-part is a sandwich of sulfur planes enclosing the inner Nb plane as observed for the structure of the binary compound NbS₂ itself. The Sr-Gd derivative shows a paramagnetic behavior in the whole studied temperature range (2-300 K). On the other hand, antiferromagnetic interactions occur in the Sr-Fe derivative; the complex magnetic behavior of this compound is related to the statistical distribution of Fe atoms which leads to frustration of the magnetic interactions. At room temperature, experimental values obtained from Mössbauer spectrum correspond to Fe³⁺ in tetrahedral sulfur environment: isomer shift δ=0.32 mm s⁻¹, and quadrupole splitting ΔE=0.48 mm s⁻¹.