Strikingly dissimilar effect of Mn and Zn dopants imposed on local structural distortion of Ba0.5K0.5Fe2As2 superconductor.

To clarify the contrasting impurity effects of Mn and Zn dopants on the critical temperature of optimally doped Ba_0.5K_0.5Fe₂As₂ superconductors, extended X-ray absorption fine-structure spectroscopy was implemented at the Fe and As K-edge. In Mn-doped compounds a gradual deviation of the symmetric FeAs₄ tetrahedron and weakening of the Fe-As bond was observed. Conversely, in Zn-doped compounds the perfect FeAs₄ tetrahedron is maintained and the Fe-As bond is rigid. The local structural details are consistent with the development of superconductivity in these two systems, suggesting a significant role played by the topology of the FeAs₄ tetrahedron and rigidness of the Fe-As bond in Mn/Zn-doped Ba_0.5K_0.5Fe₂As₂ superconductors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]