Exploring the crystal structure and properties of ytterbium orthoantimonate under high pressure

Abstract

The crystal structure of YbSbO₄ was determined from powder X-ray diffraction data using the Rietveld method. YbSbO₄ is found to be monoclinic and isostructural to α-PrSbO₄. We have also tested the influence of pressure on the crystal structure up to 22 GPa by synchrotron powder X-ray diffraction. No phase transition was found. The P–V equation of state and axial compressibilities were determined. Experiments were combined with density-functional theory calculations, which provided information on the elastic constants and the influence of pressure in the crystal structure and Raman/infrared phonons. Results are compared with those from other orthoantimonates. Reasons for the difference in the high-pressure behaviour of YbSbO₄ compared with most antimony oxides will be discussed.