Structure and Thermodynamic Stability of LuFe2O4

Abstract

Synthesis of a multiferroic of composition LuFe₂O₄ at a temperature of 1363 K and low oxygen pressures, its crystal structure, and thermodynamic properties are reported. The LuFe₂O₄ ferrite was obtained by using an improved method of synthesis in a controlled atmosphere. The stability range of this compound was determined in relation to the partial pressure of oxygen in the gas atmosphere under a thermal treatment. At room temperature, the sample has a rhombohedral structure (\({\rm{R}}\overline 3 \, m\) space group). The X-ray diffraction method was used to determine the structural characteristics of the compound, and its thermodynamic properties were found by the static method in a vacuum circulation installation.