Crystal structure and magnetic properties of YbZn0.7In1.3

The new ternary YbZn0.7In1.3 compound was synthesized in evacuated quartz ampoules at 900 °C, followed by annealing at 400 °C. It crystallized in the UHg2 structure type with a=0.47934(5) nm, c=0.36955(5) nm, V=0.073535(15) nm3. The shortest distances between the atoms in this structure were equal to 0.3696 nm (Yb–Yb), 0.3328 nm (Yb–M) and 0.2767 nm (M–M), respectively. Magnetization measurements indicated that the title compound exhibited a paramagnetic behavior down to 2 K, with antiferromagnetic-like interactions. Calculated magnetic moment for YbZn0.7In1.3 (μeff =3.86 μB/Yb) could indicate mixed valence state of Yb.