Three-dimensional weak localization and negative magnetoresistance in high-quality PtP 2 crystals

Pentagonal-ring-structured PtP 2 bulk crystals and the two-dimensional (2D) PtP 2 with rich theoretical physical and chemical properties have attracted considerable attention for the applications in high-performance electronic and optoelectronic devices. Here, high-quality PtP 2 single crystals have been successfully prepared by using a tin flux method with the optimal molar ratios of Pt and P. 3D weak localization effect and negative magnetoresistance (NMR) are observed in the high-quality PtP 2 single crystals for the first time. Crystalline structure, magnetization, and optical spectral characterizations have demonstrated that the defects in PtP 2 crystals can suppress the NMR effect and magnetic ordered states. These findings open up a way to synthesize the bulk and low-dimensional noble-metal-based phosphides of high quality and provide new platforms for studying the different correlated electronic states.