Superconductivity in Crystallographically Disordered LaHg_6.4

Abstract

The influence of structural disorder on superconductivity is not yet fully understood. A concurrent examination of crystallographic and physical properties of LaHg 6.4 reveals that this material enters a superconducting state below T c = 2.4 K while showing crystallographic disorder in one dimension. Lanthanum mercuride, which crystallizes in a new structure type (space group Cmcm , a = 9.779(2) Å, b = 28.891(4) Å, c = 5.0012(8) Å, Z = 8), has remained out of reach for nearly 50 years. In this crystal structure, strong disorder is present in the channels that propagate along the [001] direction. By implementing a combination of cutting-edge synthesis and characterization techniques, we were able to circumvent the complexity associated with the low formation temperature and chemical reactivity of this substance and study the superconductivity of LaHg 6.4 in detail.

Chemical and Physical Properties of YHg3 and LuHg3

“…Chemical substitution experiments could also be fruitful. Currently, studies of amalgams of rare-earth and actinides appear to be scarse. ,,,,, However, by using modern experimental tools, we are now able to conclusively unveil their peculiar chemical and physical properties.…”