The New Superconductor tP-SrPd2Bi2: Structural Polymorphism and Superconductivity in Intermetallics

TL;DR

This study reveals that the tetragonal polymorph of SrPd2Bi2 exhibits superconductivity at 2.0 K, while the monoclinic form does not, highlighting the impact of structural polymorphism on superconducting properties in intermetallics.

Contribution

The paper demonstrates how structural polymorphism in SrPd2Bi2 influences its superconductivity, providing insights into the relationship between crystal structure and superconducting behavior.

Findings

Tetragonal SrPd2Bi2 is superconducting at 2.0 K.

Monoclinic SrPd2Bi2 is not superconducting.

Structural differences significantly affect superconductivity in these phases.

Abstract

We consider a system where structural polymorphism suggests the possible existence of superconductivity through the implied structural instability. SrPd2Bi2 has two poly-morphs which can be controlled by the synthesis temperature: a tetragonal form (CaBe2Ge2-type) and a monoclinic form (BaAu2Sb2-type). Though the crystallographic difference between the two forms may at first seem trivial, we show that tetragonal SrPd2Bi2 is superconducting at 2.0 K whereas monoclinic SrPd2Bi2 is not. We rationalize this finding and place it in context with other 1-2-2 phases