Rapid preparation of SmCoO3 perovskite via uncommon though efficient precursors: Composition matters!

Abstract A series of structurally characterized ionic complexes, namely [Co(MeCN)6][Sm(NO3)5] (1), [Co(bpy)3][Sm(NO3)5]·xMeOH (2) and [Co(phen)3][Sm(NO3)5]·xMeCN (3) was comprehensively studied as possible simple precursors for polycrystalline SmCoO3 perovskite. Thorough study of solid-state thermolysis revealed that in the case of 1, single-phase SmCoO3 forms even under an inert atmosphere, i.e. without external Co2+ to Co3+ oxidants. On air, thermolysis of all the complexes readily affords polycrystalline SmCoO3. Corresponding samples prepared from precursors 1 and 3 were monophasic, whereas little Sm2O3 crystalline admixture is always present in samples prepared from 2. All the oxide samples were also studied by means of IR spectroscopy, SEM and EDX. As a result, the effect of the initial precursor on the composition and morphology was established. A simplicity of precursors 1–3 together with their good solubility in some common organic solvents make them promising in further development of LnCoO3-based materials in various morphologies (deposited films, etc.). To the best of our knowledge, this study is also the first comparative one within particular series of structurally characterized precursors for successful preparation of corresponding complex oxide.