Synthesis of SmB₆ films by Mg-assisted solid state reaction

We convert the surface of Sm₂O₃ pieces to SmB₆ films by means of Mg-assisted boronization. Sm₂O₃ lumps and MgB₂ powder are sealed into a quartz ampule in vacuum. By utilizing thermally decomposed Mg from MgB₂ as a catalyst, SmB₆ films are produced at temperatures as low as 700 °C. The fabrication method hence enables low-temperature synthesis of SmB₆ films without using hazardous substances. We evaluate the structural properties of the films using x-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy