Smooth transition between SMM and SCM-type slow relaxing dynamics for a 1-D assemblage of {Dy(nitronyl nitroxide)2} units.

A model example for size effects on the dynamic susceptibility behavior is provided by the chain compound [{Dy(hfac)(3)NitPhIm(2)}Dy(hfac)(3)] (NitPhIm = 2-[4-(1-imidazole)phenyl]nitronyl nitroxide radical). The Arrhenius plot reveals two relaxation regimes attributed to SMM (Delta = 17.1 K and tau(0) = 17.5 x 10(-6) s) and SCM (Delta = 82.7 K and tau(0) = 8.8 x 10(-8) s) behaviors. The ferromagnetic exchange among the spin carriers has been established for the corresponding Gd derivative.