The series LnSrVO4: synthesis, crystal structure, crystal chemistry and magnetic susceptibilities

The synthesis of several members of the series LnSrVO₄ can be achieved by hydrogen reduction of mixtures of Ln₂O₃, SrCO₃ and V₂O₅ or SrCO₃ and LnVO₄ at 1200 °C for 24 h. The series exists from lanthanum to terbium inclusive. The range of existence is discussed in terms of the ratio of radii of the structure fields and the large cation size mismatch ratios. Crystal structures were refined from powder neutron diffraction data for Ln La, Ce Pr and Nd. Cell constants are reported for all members from X-ray Guinier data. All compounds are isostructural with K₂NiF₄, I4/mmm. Magnetic susceptibility data from 4.2 K to 300 K are described. It is possible that a local moment of about 2.6 β per V³⁺ exists for Ln Ce, Pr and Nd but Ln La represents a different case.