Tuning the Eu valence in EuPd_3B_x: pressure versus valence electron count - a combined computational and experimental study

In a joint theoretical and experimental study we investigate the pressure dependence of the Eu valence in EuPd_3B_x (0 = 0.2) can be suppressed partially in this pressure range. From the complementary measurements we conclude that the valence change in EuPd_3B_x is mainly driven by the number of additional valence electrons due to the insertion of boron, whereas the volume change is a secondary effect. A similar valence change of Eu in Eu_{1-x}La_xPd_3 is predicted for x >= 0.4, in line with the suggested electron count scenario.