X-ray diffraction and spectroscopic investigations of phase transitions in linear chain compounds. M₂[Pt(CN)₄]₃•21 H₂O with M = Dy, Er, Tb, Y

Abstract

Phase transitions of single-crystal M₂[Pt(CN)₄]₃•21H₂O are investigated under temperature variation using X-ray diffraction, polarized emission and DSC-measurements. At a temperature T(trans) a jump was observed in lattice parameters and in optical transition energies. The transition is connected with an occurence of a latent transition enthalpy. This indicates a displacive phase transition of first order. Optical and X-ray data can be correlated.