Critical behavior of betaine arsenate

The critical exponents , and of undeuterated and partially deuterated ferroelectric betaine arsenate are estimated. Small but remarkable deviations from the tricritical values are observed. The obtained values are tested via scaling of the isothermals.At some distance aboveT _c a cross-over of the effective critical exponent to a value typically for short-range forces is observed. A suitably defined cross-over temperature range decreases with increasing deuteration and seems to vanish near the antiferroelectric phase boundary.     

Quantum spin chains: Simple models with complex dynamics

The present study highlights some of the complexities observed in the dynamical properties of one-dimensional quantum spin systems. Exact results for zero-temperature dynamic correlation functions are presented for two contrasting situations:

1. a system with a fully ordered ferromagnetic ground state;
2. a system at aT _c=0 critical point.

For both situations it is found that the exact results are considerably more complex than has been anticipated on the basis of approximate approaches which are considered to be appropriate and reliable for such situations. A still higher degree of complexity is expected for the dynamics of quantum spin systems which are nonintegrable. The paper concludes with some observations concerning nonintegrability effects and quantum chaos in spin systems.     

Fast proton conductivity of polycrystalline titanoniobates

The proton conductivity of three layer-type compounds was studied: H₃OTi₂NbO₇. H₂O, HTiNbO₅ and HTiTaO₅. Measurements were made between 20 °C and 90°C on pellets pressed from crystalline powders and soaked with pure water. The hydrated compound had the highest conductivity, (20°C)-6.3–6.9·10^–4 (cm)^–1. Acid ions from the exchange process were quite firmly retained in its layer structure and contributed significantly to the measured conductivity. Consistent results were obtained after prolonged washing with water.Dedicated to Professor Harry Thomas on the occasion of his 60th birthday