Synthesis and magnetic properties of the InSb-MnSb eutectic

It has been demonstrated by a combination of physical and chemical methods that InSb and MnSb form an eutectic (6.5 mol % MnSb, Tm = 513°C). A composition consisting of a [110] oriented InSb single crystal matrix and faceted single-crystal MnSb inclusions has been grown by the Bridgman method. The composition shows pronounced electrical conductivity anisotropy. The electrical conductivity along needle-like MnSb inclusions is 5 times higher than the electrical conductivity in the perpendicular direction. The composition possesses magnetic properties and has a Curie temperature of ∼600 K. The material is of interest as a substrate for ferromagnet/semiconductor heterostructures.