Key role of lattice symmetry in the metal-insulator transition of NdNiO3 films

• DOI: 10.1038/srep23652
• Publication Date: 2016-04-01T09:20:04Z
• Authors: Jack Y. Zhang; Honggyu Kim; Evgeny Mikheev; Adam J. Hauser; Susanne Stemmer
• Keywords: Metal–insulator transition; Lattice (music)

Bulk NdNiO3 exhibits a metal-to-insulator transition (MIT) as the temperature is lowered that also seen in tensile strained films. In contrast, films are under large compressive strain typically remain metallic at all temperatures. To clarify microscopic origins of this behavior, we use position averaged convergent beam electron diffraction scanning transmission microscopy to characterize both above and below MIT temperature. We show symmetry lowering structural change takes place case film, which undergoes an MIT, but absent compressively film. Using space group arguments, these results support bond length disproportionation model rare-earth nickelates. Furthermore, provide insights into non-Fermi liquid phase observed for absent.