Tuning A-site ionic size in R(0.5)Ca(0.5)MnO3 (R = Pr, Nd and Sm): robust modulation in dc and ac transport behavior

Structural investigations on Pr(0.5)Ca(0.5)MnO(3), Nd(0.5)Ca(0.5)MnO(3) and Sm(0.5)Ca(0.5)MnO(3) display a systematic tuning in orthorhombic distortion which appears due to a change in A-site ionic size. Comprehensive investigations on dc conduction using various models indicate strong correlation with structural changes. Careful analysis of the ac conductivity mechanism as a function of frequency and temperature brings out a pronounced effect of structural modifications on the polaron conduction mechanism. Contrary to typical manifestations, dc conductivity and relaxation of charge carriers reveal non-Arrhenius behavior. This work provides a detailed and systematic addition to the phase diagram of electronic transport in the rare-earth manganite system doped with a divalent alkali atom.