Magnetic studies of S=1/2 kagom\'{e} lattice single crystals

The Zn-paratacamite mineral family, Zn$_{x}$Cu$_{4-x}$(OH)$_{6}$Cl$_{2}$, presents a promising system for studies of frustrated magnetism on a S=1/2 kagom\'{e} lattice. Here we report a new synthesis method, by which high quality single crystals of Zn-paratacamite can be produced. The x = 1 mineral herbertsmithite is a spin-liquid candidate. This compound displays a magnetic susceptibility that is anisotropic at high temperatures. A small anisotropy is observed in specific heat measurements with magnetic field applied in-plane and normal-to-plane. Inelastic neutron scattering has been performed and we will discuss the observed structure factor in the context of various theoretical expectations.