T(c) maximum in solid solution of pyrite IrSe2-RhSe2 induced by destabilization of anion dimers

J Am Chem Soc. 2012 Dec 12;134(49):20001-4. doi: 10.1021/ja309724w. Epub 2012 Nov 29.

Abstract

We have established a well-defined dome-shaped T(c) curve in Ir(0.94-x)Rh(x)Se(2) superconductors. The maximum T(c)(onset) of 9.6 K was obtained at x = 0.36, at which the Se-Se separation in the dimer anion is the longest. Simultaneously, the destabilization of Se-Se dimers accompanied by partial electron transfer from the Ir/Rh to the chalcogenide ions resulted in the emergence of optimal T(c).