Distortion of a matrix structure and the cluster formation in MnxZnyFezO4 ferrite single crystals

The evolution of the hard and soft modes in the crystal structure of Mn_xZn_yFe_zO₄ manganese-zinc spinel ferrites is investigated theoretically and experimentally (x-ray structure analysis and magnetic measurements). It is shown that tetragonal and rhombohedral distortions of the cubic structure and fluctuations of the soft mode are accompanied by the formation of clusters in the form of quasi-two-dimensional fragments (50–200 and 400–1200 Å), which involve families of γ-Mn₂O₃, γ-Mn₃O₄, and α-Fe₂O₃ oxide planes inherently bound to the spinel matrix.