Current percolation model for the special resistivity behavior observed in Cu-doped Apatite

Since the initial report of the potential occurrence of room-temperature superconductivity under normal pressure [arXiv: 2307.12008], there has been significant interest in the field of condensed matter physics regarding Cu-doped Apatite (Pb10-xCux(PO4)6O). In this study, we performed temperature-dependent resistivity measurements on the synthesized Pb10-xCux(PO4)6O samples. The structure of the sample was confirmed to match the reference literature through X-ray diffraction analysis. Remarkably, we observed four distinct types of resistivity behaviors within samples from the same pellet: (1) A semiconductor-like behavior characterized by a decrease in resistivity as the temperature is lowered. (2) A gradual reduction in resistivity, reaching an exceptionally small value that falls below the resolution limits of our measurement equipment. (3) An abrupt drop in resistivity to a low value at ~ 250 K. (4) An almost linear reduction in resistivity exhibiting a transition at approximately 7 K (possibly associated with Pb). Following a thorough compositional analysis, we proposed a current percolation model, based on the formation of a Cu/Pb current channel, to elucidate the observed special resistivity behaviors. It is important to note that the Meissner effect was not observed in our magnetization measurements. Consequently, we reached the conclusion that the presence of superconductivity in Cu-doped Apatite has yet to be substantiated.