A quantum spin liquid candidate isolated in a two-dimensional CoIIRhIII bimetallic oxalate network

A quantum spin liquid (QSL) is an elusive state of matter characterized by the absence of long-range magnetic order, even at zero temperature, and by the presence of exotic quasiparticle excitations. In spite of their relevance for quantum communication, topological quantum computation and the understanding of strongly correlated systems, like high-temperature superconductors, the unequivocal experimental identification of materials behaving as QSLs remains challenging. Here, we present a novel 2D heterometallic oxalate complex formed by high-spin Co(II) ions alternating with diamagnetic Rh(III) in a honeycomb lattice. This complex meets the key requirements to become a QSL: a spin ½ ground…