Local-scale magnetic studies of the condensed valence-bond state in LiZn$_{2}$Mo$_{3}$O$_{8}$

The reduced molybdenum oxide LiZn$_{2}$Mo$_{3}$O$_{8}$ is an insulating material composed of layers of Mo$_{3}$O$_{13}$ clusters, with the clusters arranged on a triangular lattice and non-magnetic Li/Zn inter-layers. A formal electron count results in each molybdenum cluster acting as S$=$1/2 magnetic unit. Superexchange between clusters is mediated through Mo-O-Mo oxo bridges that lead to a frustrated magnetic state. Local-scale magnetic measurements indicate the existence of a gapless spin excitation spectrum that persists down to the lowest temperatures measured. In addition, these local probe measurements indicate local magnetic behavior that corresponds to bulk measurements. The data presented are consistent with expected magnetic responses of a condensed valence-bond state. Structural and measured magnetic properties and ongoing research will be discussed.