Multiple charge density wave transitions in Lu₂ Ir₃ Si₅ single crystal

The physical properties of the single-crystalline samples of Lu_{2} Ir_{3} Si_{5} have been investigated by magnetic susceptibility, resistivity and heat capacity studies. We observed multiple charge density wave (CDW) transitions in all the measurements. A strong thermal hysteresis at these transitions suggests a possible first order CDW ordering. In addition, the first order nature is ascertained by a very narrow and a huge cusp (62 J/mol K) in the zero field specific heat data which also suggests a strong interchain coupling. By applying a field of 9T in the specific heat measurement, one of the CDW transitions is suppressed.