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Title: Pb{sub 5}Bi{sub 24}Se{sub 41}: A new member of the homologous series forming topological insulator heterostructures

Journal Article · · Journal of Solid State Chemistry

We have synthesized Pb{sub 5}Bi{sub 24}Se{sub 41}, which is a new member of the (PbSe){sub 5}(Bi{sub 2}Se{sub 3}){sub 3m} homologous series with m=4. This series of compounds consist of alternating layers of the topological insulator Bi{sub 2}Se{sub 3} and the ordinary insulator PbSe. Such a naturally-formed heterostructure has recently been elucidated to give rise to peculiar quasi-two-dimensional topological states throughout the bulk, and the discovery of Pb{sub 5}Bi{sub 24}Se{sub 41} expands the tunability of the topological states in this interesting homologous series. The trend in the resistivity anisotropy in this homologous series suggests an important role of hybridization of the topological states in the out-of-plane transport. - Graphical abstract: X-ray diffraction profiles taken on cleaved surfaces of single-crystal samples of the (PbSe){sub 5}(Bi{sub 2}Se{sub 3}){sub 3m} homologous series with various m values up to 4, which realizes topological insulator heterostructures. Schematic crystal structure of the new phase, m=4, is also shown. - Highlights: • We have synthesized a new member of the homologous series related to topological insulators. • In this compound, a heterostructure of topological and ordinary insulators naturally forms. • Resistivity anisotropy suggests an important role of hybridization of the topological states. • This compound expands the tunability of the topological states via chemical means.

OSTI ID:
22443497
Journal Information:
Journal of Solid State Chemistry, Vol. 221; Other Information: Copyright (c) 2014 Elsevier Science B.V., Amsterdam, The Netherlands, All rights reserved.; Country of input: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA); ISSN 0022-4596
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English