The structure of a new nano-phase of lanthanum-doped strontium titanate

A novel ordered phase in La-doped SrTiO3 was determined through three-dimensional electron diffraction studies. An overall stoichiometry of LaSr7Ti8O23 leads to a monoclinic structure with layers of square pyramids of TiO 5 localised near the lanthanum substituted positions. The difference in crystal structure of the nanoprecipitates, particularly the connection of the rigid Ti-O frameworks, should affect the phonon interactions in the bulk material and so helps to explain a decrease in the lattice thermal conductivity in the La-doped SrTiO3, which is beneficial towards desired thermoelectric properties.

Automated summary

A novel ordered phase in La-doped SrTiO3 with TiO5 square pyramid layers was determined, which may affect lattice thermal conductivity and improve thermoelectric properties.