Product Specifications

Note: Specifications are based on theoretical data. For customized requirements and detailed inquiries, please contact us.

Product Description

Samarium Nitride (SmN) is a premium rare-earth nitride renowned for its unique blend of magnetic, electronic, and structural properties. With the chemical formula SmN, this compound crystallizes in a face-centered cubic (rock salt) structure, where each samarium atom is surrounded by six nitrogen atoms. SmN exhibits intrinsic ferromagnetism at low temperatures, with a Curie temperature around 27 K, stemming from the partially filled 4f orbitals of Sm³⁺ ions. This makes SmN a valuable material for advanced research in magnetism and spintronics.

Electrically, SmN functions as a semiconductor with a narrow bandgap between 0.7-1.0 eV, positioning it as a potential candidate for infrared optoelectronic devices. Additionally, SmN demonstrates high spin polarization of conduction electrons, essential for spintronic applications such as spin filters and spin-injection layers in magnetic tunnel junctions.

Thermally, SmN remains stable in inert or vacuum environments and can endure moderate temperatures without decomposing. However, it is sensitive to oxidation in air and should be handled or stored under protective atmospheres to maintain its integrity. Its robust lattice structure and resistance to chemical degradation make SmN suitable for thin-film growth and heterostructure engineering, especially when combined with other nitrides or semiconductors.

Applications

1. Spintronics:
   Ideal for spintronic devices like spin filters, spin valves, and magnetic tunnel junctions due to its high spin polarization, which is crucial for injecting and manipulating spin-polarized currents.

2. Infrared Optoelectronics:
   Utilized in optoelectronic devices operating in the infrared spectrum, including detectors and emitters, thanks to its narrow bandgap.

3. Magnetic Semiconductors:
   Serves as a promising material for magnetic semiconductors in emerging quantum and magneto-electronic technologies, leveraging its intrinsic ferromagnetism at low temperatures.

4. Thin Film Coatings:
   Applied in multilayer structures and heterostructures with other rare-earth nitrides or semiconductors to enhance electronic and optical device performance.

5. Fundamental Research:
   Acts as a model system in studies related to rare-earth magnetism, 4f-electron systems, and correlated electron behavior in low-dimensional materials.

Packaging

SMC ensures secure and customized packaging tailored to your specific needs:

• Small Quantities:
  Packaged in durable PE (polyethylene) boxes, available in 500g per box.

• Large Quantities:
  Offered in 1000g vacuum-sealed bags to preserve quality.

• Customized Packaging:
  Options include cartons, wooden crates, or bespoke solutions to provide optimal protection during transit.

For special packaging requirements, please contact us.

Manufacturing Process

Testing Methods

1. Chemical Composition Analysis:
   Ensures purity using advanced techniques such as GDMS or XRF.

2. Mechanical Properties Testing:
   Evaluates tensile strength, yield strength, and elongation to verify material performance.

3. Dimensional Inspection:
   Measures particle size distribution to meet specified mesh requirements.

4. Surface Quality Inspection:
   Detects defects like impurities or inconsistencies through visual and microscopic examination.

5. Hardness Testing:
   Confirms material hardness for mechanical reliability and uniformity.

For detailed testing procedures, refer to SMC’s quality assurance protocols.

FAQs

Q1. What are the key properties of Samarium Nitride (SmN)?
A: SmN exhibits ferromagnetism at low temperatures, high spin polarization, and a narrow bandgap. It is chemically stable in inert or vacuum environments but can react with moisture or oxygen over time.

Q2. What are the common applications of SmN?
A: SmN is used in spintronics, magnetic semiconductors, infrared optoelectronics, and as thin film coatings in advanced electronics. It also plays a role in fundamental physics research.

Q3. Is SmN stable in air?
A: SmN is relatively sensitive to moisture and oxygen. It should be stored and handled in an inert atmosphere (e.g., argon or nitrogen) or vacuum to prevent oxidation or hydrolysis.

Performance Comparison with Competitive Products

Related Information

Common Preparation Methods

Samarium Nitride (SmN) powder is synthesized using high-temperature processes to achieve high purity and precise particle characteristics:

1. Direct Nitridation:

   • Starting Materials:
     High-purity samarium metal or samarium oxide (Sm₂O₃).
   • Process:
     The material is heated in a flowing nitrogen or ammonia atmosphere at temperatures between 800 °C and 1200 °C.
   • Reaction:
     Samarium reacts with nitrogen to form SmN, facilitated by controlled temperature and atmosphere conditions.
   • Post-Processing:
     After nitridation, the product is cooled under an inert atmosphere and ground into a fine powder with the desired particle size and purity.

2. Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD):

   • Starting Materials:
     Samarium-containing precursors are vaporized.
   • Process:
     Vaporized precursors react with nitrogen gas in a high-temperature environment, depositing SmN onto a substrate.
   • Control:
     Parameters such as temperature, pressure, and gas flow rates are meticulously managed to control particle size and purity.
   • Post-Processing:
     The deposited SmN is collected, cooled under inert conditions, and processed into fine powder if necessary.

Both methods ensure the production of high-purity, fine-grained SmN powder suitable for advanced applications in electronics, magnetics, and optoelectronics.