Pyrochlore oxide lattices are home to many geometrically frustrated magnetic systems, including the celebrated spin ice. The authors present an Ising magnetic model on this structure, with a magnetoelastic term coupling the spin lattice to the O−2 ions which mediate superexchange. This model explains the presence of exotic forms of order found in previous experiments, allows stabilisation of some long-sought phases, and signals lattice distortions as a new probe for the complex magnetism of these materials.
- D. Slobinsky
- L. Pili
- R. A. Borzi
