Long-range ferromagnetism in nickel-based hybrid structure with semiconductor behavior

Abstract

Here we report a new three-dimensional nickel-based hybrid structure [Ni₃(BTB)₂(BPE)₄(H₂O)₂]·2DMF·2H₂O, 1 [where BTB = 1,3,5-tris(4-carboxyphenyl)benzene and BPE = 1,2-bis((4-pyridyl)ethane)], which exhibits long-range ferromagnetism and semiconductor behavior. The dipolar interaction between the magnetic spins is suggested to explain the development of long-range ferromagnetic ordering, where the superexchange interaction can be unwanted due to the large distance between the magnetic spins. Optical band gap and resistance vs. temperature measurements reveal the semiconductor nature of this compound. The density of states calculations shed light towards the origin of the low band gap value.