The synthesis and initial characterization of a layered perovskite-based lead-bismuth oxide are reported. The phase, ${\mathrm{Ba}}_3$(${\mathrm{Pb}}_{1\mathrm{-}\mathit{x}}$${\mathrm{Bi}}_{\mathit{x}}$${)}_2$${\mathrm{O}}_7$, for 0≤x≤0.5, is the n=2 member of the Ruddlesden-Popper series ${\mathit{A}}_{\mathit{n}+1\mathrm{}}$${\mathit{B}}_{\mathit{n}}$${\mathrm{O}}_{3\mathit{n}+1\mathrm{}}$. It can be synthesized only under very narrowly defined conditions. Despite the analogy to the well-known three-dimensional perovskite superconductor ${\mathrm{BaPb}}_{0.75}$${\mathrm{Bi}}_{0.25}$${\mathrm{O}}_3$, layered ${\mathrm{Ba}}_3$${\mathrm{Pb}}_2$${\mathrm{O}}_7$ does not become superconducting (down to 1.8 K) on doping with Bi.

• Received 18 June 1992

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.46.14101