Physical properties of intergrowth compound Eu 2 CuZn 2 P 3

This study examines the coupling of magnetism and electrical transport in a quaternary material that is a natural heterostructure of ternary Zintl phases EuCuP and EuZn${}₂$P${}₂$. Neutron diffraction reveals a collinear antiferromagnetic structure composed of ferromagnetic EuCuP and antiferromagnetic EuZn${}₂$P${}₂$ motifs. Coupled to the onset of magnetic order is an unconventional Hall effect, which is observed as a broad maximum below the critical field. Theoretical calculations suggest an increase in the density of states upon magnetic polarization, indicating that the magnetic structure may modify the Fermi surface. The extent to which this behavior impacts the Hall effect in this and related Zintl phases needs further exploration.