Zn(C3H3N2)2: a novel diamagnetic insulator

We have prepared polycrystalline samples of Zn(C₃H₃N₂)₂ by a liquid-mix technique. Characterization of the obtained samples has been performed with the aid of elemental, thermogravimetric, infrared spectra and X-ray powder diffraction analysis. We have measured electric permittivity (ε′, ε″), ac-conductivity (σ_ac), magnetic susceptibility (χ) and specific heat (C_p). The obtained data indicate that this material is a new diamagnetic insulator. A maximum around is found in C_pT⁻³, and it is suggested that in addition to the Debye lattice contribution, there exists a low-frequency mode assigned as an Einstein mode contribution to the total specific heat. As a main result of the study, we found ε′ to be constant in a wide temperature range and to have a small value of 2.3 at room temperature. This feature in combination with other properties like crystallization, good thermal stability (up to 400°C), weak moisture sensitivity and simple synthesis makes Zn(C₃H₃N₂)₂ to be a promising candidate for good insulating material in various applications.