X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy studies of Yb14MnSb11 and Yb14ZnSb11

Measurements of core and valence electronic states of single crystals of the rare earth transition metal Zintl phases Yb14MnSb11 and Yb14ZnSb11 were performed using the X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy station of Beamline 7 at the Advanced Light Source. Sample surfaces of Yb14MnSb11 and Yb14ZnSb11 were measured as received, after Ar+ ion bombardment, and after cleaving in situ. The single crystal structure of Yb14ZnSb11 is also reported. Both compounds are air-sensitive and show Yb3+ due to surface oxidation. In the case of Yb14MnSb11, there is no evidence for Yb3+ that would be intrinsic to the sample, consistent with previously reported X-ray magnetic circular dichroism studies. Detailed analyses of the Yb14ZnSb11 surfaces reveal a significant contribution of both Yb3+ and Yb2+ 4f states in the valence band region. This result is predicted for the Zn analog by Zintl counting rules and support the mixed valency of Yb for Yb14ZnSb11. Further detailed analysis of the core and valence band structure of both Yb14MnSb11 and Yb14ZnSb11 is presented.