Bi, Sn and Sb valence states in highT _c (Bi, Pb/Sn, Sb)₂Sr₂Ca₂Cu₃O_y

Abstract

The valence of Bi and its substituents Sn and Sb are investigated in the high temperature superconductor (Bi_0.8X_0.15Sb_0.05)₂Sr₂Ca₂Cu₃O_y (often denoted 2223) where X=Pb or Sn. Pb and Sn are isoelectronic with the valence states 2+ and 4+; Bi and Sb are as well with valence states 3+ and 5+. The valence state of Sn and Sb has been obtained from Mössbauer spectroscopy: they exist in the high charge states 4+ and 5+ respectively. Sn, Sb, and presumably Pb, take on the high valence state, and so furnish electrons to the conduction band. This is probably the reason why, although the (Pb, Sb)-doping aids in stabilizing the 2223 crystal structure, it is detremental to the electronic properties which lead to the superconducting phase. The valence state of Bi has been studied using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). These results show clearly that the Bi-based superconductor has a metal-like density of states at the Fermi level, and that the valence in the (Pb, Sb)-doped compounds is less than 3. This very surprising change in valence will have a profound effect on the superconducting properties, and is probably associated with the high valent states of Pb, Sn and Sb.