Characterization of ferromagnetic order in CePd₂P₂

We examine magnetic ordering in CePd₂P₂ by neutron-scattering experiment and confirmed a ferromagnetic order at low temperatures. From the neutron-scattering data, the ordered moment is evaluated to be ∼ 1.3(3) μ_B per Ce ion at 3 K and is considered to be parallel to the c-axis. In addition, no evidence of the change in the magnetic structure was observed below T_C within the experimental accuracy. In DC magnetization measurement with an as-grown powder sample and a magnetically aligned sample, a clear magnetic anisotropy in CePd₂P₂ was observed in both ferromagnetic and paramagnetic phases. To obtain further insight to the large Curie temperature T_C of CePd₂P₂, we have examined the magnetic properties of GdPd₂P₂ as a reference material. In DC magnetization measurement, successive magnetic transitions at T_I = 10.6 K and T_II = 7.4 K were observed in GdPd₂P₂. By comparing the transition temperatures of the Ce and Gd compounds, we argue the origin of the large Curie temperature of CePd₂P₂.