Physical and one-dimensional properties of single-crystalline La5AgPb3

Abstract

We report here the properties of single crystals of La$_{5}$AgPb$_{3}$, which is a member of the $R_5MX_3$ ($R$ = rare earth, $M$ = transition metal or main group element, $X$ = Pb, Sn, Sb, In, Bi) family of chain-like compounds. Measurements of the electrical resistivity, specific heat and magnetic susceptibility are compared to the results of density functional calculations, finding that La$_{5}$AgPb$_{3}$ is a non-magnetic metal with moderate correlations. The analysis of the electrical resistivity and specific heat measurements highlight the importance of lattice vibrations in the material, while the calculated electron density suggests the presence of localized La and well-hybridized Ag atoms that extend along the c-axis in the La$_{5}$AgPb$_{3}$ structure. The temperature dependence of the magnetic susceptibility is consistent with a possible one-dimensional character of La$_{5}$AgPb$_{3}$, where the strength of correlations is much weaker than in one-dimensional conductors that have been previously reported.