Synthesis, structures and properties of transition metal doped SrIrO3

Abstract

The synthesis of some transition metal SrIr_1−xM_xO₃ type oxides is described. These have an orthorhombic perovskite type-structure and are only found when the formal oxidation state of the Ir is approximately equal to +4.5 and for M = Fe, Co, Ni and Zn. Occupancy of the TM e_g type orbitals appears to contribute to the break-down of the dimeric motif seen in the 6H–SrIrO₃ structure. Variable temperature resistivity measurements show that SrIr_0.8Zn_0.2O₃ is a metal; SrIr_0.8Ni_0.2O₃ an non-metal and SrIr_0.8Co_0.2O₃ undergoes a temperature dependent metal–insulator transition.