Phonon spectra of ortho -dinitrotetramethylbenzene crystals

Abstract

We have studied the vibrational spectra and thermal behaviour of ortho-dinitrotetramethylbenzene (o-DNTMB) to learn more about its molecular and lattice dynamics. The molecule undergoes two solid–solid phase transitions, close to the melting point, which could be explained by the relaxation of forces hindering the methyl-group and nitro-group free rotations. We have deduced the nature of the solid state vibrational motions, particularly those of lattice phonons, using group theory.