Low-energy excitations of the semimetallic one-dimensional S=1/2 antiferromagnet Yb4As3 ☆

Abstract We investigate a new route to quasi-one-dimensional spin-chain systems which originates from the charge-ordering transition out of a homogeneous mixed-valence state. We present evidence that Yb 4 As 3 and P, Sb doped mixed crystals are well described by this mechanism. Many thermodynamic and low-temperature transport heavy-fermion-like properties can be explained by the existence of low-lying quasi-one-dimensional spin excitations in the Yb 3+ -chains. The observation of soliton excitations in a transverse external field gives further support to the existence of spin chains in Yb 4 As 3 . We also present recent results on spin-glass behavior at very low temperature caused by the interchain coupling and disorder. In addition, the yet unexplained magnetotransport effects are discussed.