Resulting from the recent observation of superconductivity in Nd_1-xSr_xNiO₂ the interest in the infinite-layer RNiO₂ (R = La, Nd) compounds revived. Since experimental reports into RNiO₂ compounds are quite limited, Nd_1‑xSr_xNiO₂ and its precursor Nd_1‑xSr_xNiO₃ were synthesized and characterized at Argonne National Lab.
Experience shows, that introducing Sr²⁺ into the RNiO₂ structure as a dopant requires quite high temperatures and oxygen pressures. For experimental challenges like this one our A‑HSO furnace was developed in cooperation with John F. Mitchell. For the different experimental approaches the A‑HSO was used for the final treatment of the priorly received material at 1000 °C and 150-160 bar of oxygen pressure. This high pressure annealing technique was decisive to get well crystallized and pure Nd_1‑xSr_xNiO₃.
The subsequently obtained Nd_1‑xSr_xNiO₂ was characterized by its electrical transport properties and neutron diffraction at different temperatures..
We're excited to learn for which other interesting materials the A‑HSO will be of use.