Structural and Magnetic Studies of Zn Doped LaRh_1-2xCu_2xO₃

Abstract

Two series of Zn doped Rh perovskites LaRh1-2xCux ZnxO3 and La0.75Pb0.25Rh1-2xCuxZnxO3 (0≤ x ≤0.25) were synthesised by solid-state methods and their crystallographic, magnetic, and electric properties investigated. Both series have an orthorhombic perovskite-type structure in space group Pbnm. The increase in Zn content has an obvious impact on the electron delocalisation in which the shift in the average valency of Cu and Rh (+2.5 and +3.5) has resulted in a reduction in cell volumes and an increase in the effective magnetic moments. The Curie–Weiss magnetization curves measured between 5-300K are indicative of antiferromagnetism. The addition of Pb to the A- site decreases the conductivity as anticipated.