LAUSR

Reducible oxides such as CeO2 are challenging to describe with standard density-functional theory (DFT) due to the mixed valence states of the cations; they often require the use of non-standard correction schemes, and/or more computationally expensive methods. This adds a new layer of complexity when it comes to the generation of Slater–Koster tables and the corresponding repulsive potentials for self-consistent density-functional based tight-binding (SCC-DFTB) calculations of such materials. In this work, we provide guidelines for how to set up a parametrization scheme for mixed valence oxides within the SCC-DFTB framework, with a focus on reproducing structural and electronic properties as well as redox reaction energies calculated using a reference DFT method. This parametrization procedure was here used to generate parameters for Ce–O systems, with Ce in its +III or +IV formal oxidation states. The generated parameter set is validated by comparison with DFT calculations for various ceria (CeO2) and r...