Electronic properties of M2InV3O11 (M(II) = Zn(II) and Co(II)) compounds

The electronic properties of multicomponent vanadate oxides M2InV3O11 (M(II) = Zn(II) and Co(II)) were investigated by electrical resistivity and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) measurements. Replacement of non-magnetic Zn(II) cations with magnetic Co(II) ions resulted in a significant drop in the electrical conductivity and an increase in the activation energy. The EPR spectroscopy revealed the presence of VO2+ vanadyl ions in both compounds, while the presence of divalent cobalt ions was identified in the Co2InV3O11 oxide at low temperatures. The concentration of VO2+ vanadyl ions was found to be about one order higher for the vanadate oxide without magnetic ions. It is suggested that the increased concentration of VO2+ ions could be responsible for the enhanced conductivity of Zn2InV3O11.