Efficiently synthesized Co doped Cu3TeO6 accounted for its anomalous behaviour in electronic properties

Abstract

Synthesis of Cu_3−xCo_xTeO₆ (x = 0, 0.1, 0.3 or 0.5) is carried out using a wet chemical route and characterized using various instrumental techniques. The cubic crystal structure of these compounds is confirmed using an X-ray diffraction method. Morphological observations are made using scanning electron and transmission electron microscopy (SEM-TEM) techniques and the stoichiometries of the elemental composition of the compounds are investigated using SEM-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) analysis. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurements are carried out and studied in detail in order to examine the valence state of the elements present. A direct current electrical resistivity study and a thermoelectric power study give a clear picture of the electrical transition occurring, which is also evident from the differential scanning calorimetry studies. Compounds show a magnetic transition from an anti-ferromagnetic type to a paramagnetic type at the material's Néel temperature. Enhancement in the dielectric properties of copper tellurate (Cu₃TeO₆) on doping with cobalt (Co) is observed when studied under frequency domain. In general, this research shows an efficient synthetic route and a detailed study of Co doped copper tellurates, which could provide new opportunities for researchers to explore its applications in the field of electronics.