Interface reconstruction in superconducting CaCuO2/SrTiO3 superlattices: A hard x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy study

Here we report on interface reconstruction in the recently discovered superconducting artificial superlattices based on insulating CaCuO2 and SrTiO3 blocks. Hard x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy shows that the valence-band alignment prevents any electronic reconstruction by direct charge transfer between the two blocks. We demonstrate that the electrostatic built-in potential is suppressed by oxygen redistribution in the alkaline-earth-metal interface planes. By using highly oxidizing growth conditions, the oxygen coordination in the reconstructed interfaces may be increased, resulting in the hole doping of the cuprate block and thus in the appearance of superconductivity. © 2013 American Physical Society.