Physical properties of ThCr2Si2-type Rh-based compounds ARh2Ge2(A = Ca, Sr, Y and Ba): DFT based first-principles investigation

Abstract

In this paper, we have explored the physical, mechanical, chemical bonding, dialectical and thermodynamic properties of ARh2Ge2 (A = Ca, Sr, Y and Ba) theoretically for the first time. This investigation has been completed by density functional theory (DFT) calculations with the help of CASTEP code. The structural optimized factors of ARh2Ge2 (A = Ca, Sr, Y and Ba) are in excellent concurrence with the existing experimental data. The observed elastic constants are positive and prove the mechanical constancy for all these compounds. The calculated Pugh’s ratio and Poisson’s ratio show the ductile behaviors of Ca/YRh2Ge2 and brittleness behaviors of Sr/BaRh2Ge2, whereas the Cauchy pressure indicates the ductility for all these phases. The anisotropic factors, universal anisotropy indicator and fraction of anisotropy in compression and shear ensure the elastically anisotropic nature for all these phases. Bulk modulus and hardness values indicate that Sr/BaRh2Ge2 are soft and easily machinable in comparison with Y/CaRh2Ge2. The analysis of the band structure diagrams as well as density of states (total density of states and partial density of states) evidence the metallic behavior for all the compounds. The analysis of Mulliken bond populations and charge density maps give the existence of covalent and metallic bonding in these compounds. The optical properties point out that all phases can be used as coating materials at low energies. For all the phases the Debye temperatures have been calculated via elastic constant data. We have also evaluated the minimum thermal conductivity for these compounds. All compounds possess the relatively low minimum thermal conductivity with the low value of Debye temperatures which also evidence that all compounds could be applied like thermal fence covering material.