Syntheses and structures of the infinite chain compounds Cs(4)Ti(3)Se(13), Rb(4)Ti(3)S(14), Cs(4)Ti(3)S(14), Rb(4)Hf(3)S(14), Rb(4)Zr(3)Se(14), Cs(4)Zr(3)Se(14), and Cs(4)Hf(3)Se(14)

The alkali metal/group 4 metal/polychalcogenides Cs(4)Ti(3)Se(13), Rb(4)Ti(3)S(14), Cs(4)Ti(3)S(14), Rb(4)Hf(3)S(14), Rb(4)Zr(3)Se(14), Cs(4)Zr(3)Se(14), and Cs(4)Hf(3)Se(14) have been synthesized by means of the reactive flux method at 823 or 873 K. Cs(4)Ti(3)Se(13) crystallizes in a new structure type in space group C(2)(2)-P2(1) with eight formula units in a monoclinic cell at T = 153 K of dimensions a = 10.2524(6) A, b = 32.468(2) A, c = 14.6747(8) A, beta = 100.008(1) degrees. Cs(4)Ti(3)Se(13) is composed of four independent one-dimensional [Ti(3)Se(13)(4-)] chains separated by Cs(+) cations. These chains adopt hexagonal closest packing along the [100] direction. The [Ti(3)Se(13)(4-)] chains are built from the face- and edge-sharing of pentagonal pyramids and pentagonal bipyramids. Formal oxidation states cannot be assigned in Cs(4)Ti(3)Se(13). The compounds Rb(4)Ti(3)S(14), Cs(4)Ti(3)S(14), Rb(4)Hf(3)S(14), Rb(4)Zr(3)Se(14), Cs(4)Zr(3)Se(14), and Cs(4)Hf(3)Se(14) crystallize in the K(4)Ti(3)S(14) structure type with four formula units in space group C(2)(h)()(6)-C2/c of the monoclinic system at T = 153 K in cells of dimensions a = 21.085(1) A, b = 8.1169(5) A, c = 13.1992(8) A, beta = 112.835(1) degrees for Rb(4)Ti(3)S(14);a = 21.329(3) A, b = 8.415(1) A, c = 13.678(2) A, beta = 113.801(2) degrees for Cs(4)Ti(3)S(14); a = 21.643(2) A, b = 8.1848(8) A, c = 13.331(1) A, beta = 111.762(2) degrees for Rb(4)Hf(3)S(14); a = 22.605(7) A, b = 8.552(3) A, c = 13.880(4) A, beta = 110.919(9) degrees for Rb(4)Zr(3)Se(14); a = 22.826(5) A, b = 8.841(2) A, c = 14.278(3) A, beta = 111.456(4) degrees for Cs(4)Zr(3)Se(14); and a = 22.758(5) A, b = 8.844(2) A, c = 14.276(3) A, beta = 111.88(3) degrees for Cs(4)Hf(3)Se(14). These A(4)M(3)Q(14) compounds (A = alkali metal; M = group 4 metal; Q = chalcogen) contain hexagonally closest-packed [M(3)Q(14)(4-)] chains that run in the [101] direction and are separated by A(+) cations. Each [M(3)Q(14)(4-)] chain is built from a [M(3)Q(14)] unit that consists of two MQ(7) pentagonal bipyramids or one distorted MQ(8) bicapped octahedron bonded together by edge- or face-sharing. Each [M(3)Q(14)] unit contains six Q(2)(2-) dimers, with Q-Q distances in the normal single-bond range 2.0616(9)-2.095(2) A for S-S and 2.367(1)-2.391(2) A for Se-Se. The A(4)M(3)Q(14) compounds can be formulated as (A(+))(4)(M(4+))(3)(Q(2)(2-))(6)(Q(2-))(2).     

Neptunium thiophosphate chemistry: intermediate behavior between uranium and plutonium

Black crystals of Np(PS(4)), Np(P(2)S(6))(2), K(11)Np(7)(PS(4))(13), and Rb(11)Np(7)(PS(4))(13) have been synthesized by the reactions of Np, P(2)S(5), and S at 1173 and 973 K; Np, K(2)S, P, and S at 773 K; and Np, Rb(2)S(3), P, and S at 823 K, respectively. The structures of these compounds have been characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction methods. Np(PS(4)) adopts a three-dimensional structure with Np atoms coordinated to eight S atoms from four bidentate PS(4)(3-) ligands in a distorted square antiprismatic arrangement. Np(PS(4)) is isostructural to Ln(PS(4)) (Ln = La-Nd, Sm, Gd-Er). The structure of Np(P(2)S(6))(2) is constructed from three interpenetrating diamond-type frameworks with Np atoms coordinated to eight S atoms from four bidentate P(2)S(6)(2-) ligands in a distorted square antiprismatic geometry. The centrosymmetric P(2)S(6)(2-) anion comprises two PS(2) groups connected by two bridging S centers. Np(P(2)S(6))(2) is isostructural to U(P(2)S(6))(2). A(11)Np(7)(PS(4))(13) (A = K, Rb) adopts a three-dimensional channel structure built from interlocking [Np(7)(PS(4))(13)](11-)-screw helices with A cations residing in the channels. The structure of A(11)Np(7)(PS(4))(13) includes four crystallographically independent Np atoms. Three are connected to eight S atoms in bicapped trigonal prisms. The other Np atom is connected to nine S atoms in a tricapped trigonal prism. A(11)Np(7)(PS(4))(13) is isostructural to A(11)U(7)(PS(4))(13). From Np-S bond distances and charge-balance, we infer that Np is trivalent in Np(PS(4)) and tetravalent in Np(P(2)S(6))(2) and A(11)Np(7)(PS(4))(13). Np exhibits a behavior intermediate between U and Pu in its thiophosphate chemistry.     

Synthesis and characterization of six new quaternary actinide thiophosphate compounds: Cs(8)U(5)(P(3)S(10))(2)(PS(4))(6)(,) K(10)Th(3)(P(2)S(7))(4)(PS(4))(2), and A(5)An(PS(4))(3), (A = K, Rb, Cs; An = U, Th)

Six new actinide metal thiophosphates have been synthesized by the reactive flux method and characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction: Cs(8)U(5)(P(3)S(10))(2)(PS(4))(6) (I), K(10)Th(3)(P(2)S(7))(4)(PS(4))(2) (II), K(5)U(PS(4))(3) (III), K(5)Th(PS(4))(3) (IV), Rb(5)Th(PS(4))(3) (V), and Cs(5)Th(PS(4))(3) (VI). Compound I crystallizes in the monoclinic space group P2(1)/c with a = 33.2897(1) A, b = 14.9295(1) A, c = 17.3528(2) A, beta = 115.478(1) degrees, Z = 8. Compound II crystallizes in the monoclinic space group C2/c with a = 32.8085(6) A, b = 9.0482(2) A, c = 27.2972(3) A, beta = 125.720(1) degrees, Z = 8. Compound III crystallizes in the monoclinic space group P2(1)/c with a = 14.6132(1) A, b = 17.0884(2) A, c = 9.7082(2) A, beta = 108.63(1) degrees, Z = 4. Compound IV crystallizes in the monoclinic space group P2(1)/n with a = 9.7436(1) A, b = 11.3894(2) A, c = 20.0163(3) A, beta = 90.041(1) degrees, Z = 4, as a pseudo-merohedrally twinned cell. Compound V crystallizes in the monoclinic space group P2(1)/c with a = 13.197(4) A, b = 9.997(4) A, c = 18.189(7) A, beta = 100.77(1) degrees, Z = 4. Compound VI crystallizes in the monoclinic space group P2(1)/c with a = 13.5624(1) A, b = 10.3007(1) A, c = 18.6738(1) A, beta = 100.670(1) degrees, Z = 4. Optical band-gap measurements by diffuse reflectance show that compounds I and III contain tetravalent uranium as part of an extended electronic system. Thorium-containing compounds are large-gap materials. Raman spectroscopy on single crystals displays the vibrational characteristics expected for [PS(4)](3)(-), [P(2)S(7)](4-), and the new [P(3)S(10)](5)(-) building blocks. This new thiophosphate building block has not been observed except in the structure of the uranium-containing compound Cs(8)U(5)(P(3)S(10))(2)(PS(4))(6).     

Contribution of disulfide S2(2-) anions to the crystal and electronic structures in ternary sulfides, Ba12In4S19, Ba4M2S8 (M=Ga, In)

Three semiconducting ternary sulfides have been synthesized from the mixture of elements with about 20% excess of sulfur (to establish oxidant rich conditions) by solid-state reactions at high temperature. Ba(12)In(4)S(19) ≡ (Ba(2+))(12)(In(3+))(4)(S(2-))(17)(S(2))(2-), 1, crystallizes in the trigonal space group R ?3 with a = 9.6182(5) ?, b = 9.6182(5) ?, c = 75.393(7) ?, and Z = 6, with a unique long period-stacking structure of a combination of monometallic InS(4) tetrahedra, linear dimeric In(2)S(7) tetrahedra, disulfide S(2)(2-) anions, and isolated sulfide S(2-) anions that is further enveloped by Ba(2+) cations. Ba(4)In(2)S(8) ≡ (Ba(2+))(4)(In(3+))(2)(S(2-))(6)(S(2))(2-), 2, crystallizes in the triclinic space group P ?1? with a = 6.236(2) ?, b = 10.014(4) ?, c = 13.033(5) ?, α = 104.236(6)°, β = 90.412(4)°, γ = 91.052(6)°, and Z = 2. Ba(4)Ga(2)S(8) ≡ (Ba(2+))(4)(Ga(3+))(2)(S(2-))(6)(S(2))(2-), 3, crystallizes in the monoclinic P2(1)/c with a = 12.739(5) ?, b = 6.201(2) ?, c = 19.830(8) ?, β = 104.254(6)° and Z = 4. Compounds 2 and 3 represent the first one-dimensional (1D) chain structure in ternary Ba/M/S (M = In, Ga) systems. The optical band gaps of 1 and 3 are measured to be around 2.55 eV, which agrees with their yellow color and the calculation results. The CASTEP calculations also reveal that the disulfide S(2)(2-) anions in 1-3 contribute mainly to the bottom of the conduction bands and the top of valence bands, and thus determine the band gaps.     

AVSeO(5) (A = Rb, Cs) and AV(3)Se(2)O(12) (A = K, Rb, Cs, NH(4)): Hydrothermal Synthesis in the V(2)O(5)-SeO(2)-AOH System and Crystal Structure of CsVSeO(5)

Hydrothermal reactions in the V(2)O(5)-SeO(2)-AOH systems (A = Na, K, Rb, Cs, NH(4)) were studied with various reagent mole ratios. Typical millimole ratios were V(2)O(5)/SeO(2)/AOH = 5 or 3/15/x in 10-mL aqueous solutions, where x was 5, 10, 15, and 20. The reactions with x = 5 for A = K, Rb, Cs, and NH(4) at 230 degrees C produced single-phase products of the general formula AV(3)Se(2)O(12) with the (NH(4))(VO)(3)(SeO(3))(2) structure type. The x = 15 reactions for A = Rb and Cs yielded AVSeO(5) phases with a new structure type. The crystal structure for CsVSeO(5) was determined with X-ray single-crystal diffraction techniques to be monoclinic (P2(1) (No. 4), a = 7.887(3) ?, b = 7.843(2) ?, c = 9.497(3) ?, beta = 92.13(3) degrees, Z = 4). The structure of this compound consists of interwoven helixes extended in all three directions. The spires are composed of alternating SeO(3) and VO(5) units sharing common-edge oxygens in all three directions. For A = K and NH(4), the reactions of this mole ratio did not produce any identifiable phases. Each of the compounds is characterized by powder X-ray diffraction, infrared spectroscopic, and thermogravimetric techniques. The dependency of the synthesis results on the reaction conditions is discussed and rationalized.     

New layered materials: syntheses, structures, and optical properties of K(2)TiCu(2)S(4), Rb(2)TiCu(2)S(4), Rb(2)TiaAg(2)S(4), Cs(2)TiAg(2)sS(4), and Cs(2)TiCu(2)Se(4)

The new compounds K(2)TiCu(2)S(4), Rb(2)TiCu(2)S(4), Rb(2)TiAg(2)S(4), Cs(2)TiAg(2)S(4), and Cs(2)TiCu(2)Se(4) have been synthesized by the reactions of A(2)Q(3) (A = K, Rb, Cs; Q = S, Se) with Ti, M (M = Cu or Ag), and Q at 823 K. The compounds Rb(2)TiCu(2)S(4), Cs(2)TiAg(2)S(4), and Cs(2)TiCu(2)Se(4) are isostructural. They crystallize with two formula units in space group P4(2)/mcm of the tetragonal system in cells of dimensions a = 5.6046(4) A, c = 13.154(1) A for Rb(2)TiCu(2)S(4), a =6.024(1) A, c = 13.566(4) A for Cs(2)TiAg(2)S(4), and a =5.852(2) A, c =14.234(5) A for Cs(2)TiCu(2)Se(4) at 153 K. Their structure is closely related to that of Cs(2)ZrAg(2)Te(4) and comprises [TiM(2)Q(4)(2)(-)] layers, which are separated by alkali metal atoms. The [TiM(2)Q(4)(2)(-)] layer is anti-fluorite-like with both Ti and M atoms tetrahedrally coordinated to Q atoms. Tetrahedral coordination of Ti(4+) is rare in the solid state. On the basis of unit cell and space group determinations, the compounds K(2)TiCu(2)S(4) and Rb(2)TiAg(2)S(4) are isostructural with the above compounds. The band gaps of K(2)TiCu(2)S(4), Rb(2)TiCu(2)S(4), Rb(2)TiAg(2)S(4), and Cs(2)TiAg(2)S(4) are 2.04, 2.19, 2.33, and 2.44 eV, respectively, as derived from optical measurements. From band-structure calculations, the optical absorption for an A(2)TiM(2)Q(4) compound is assigned to a transition from an M d and Q p valence band (HOMO) to a Ti 3d conduction band.     

Syntheses and characterization of nine quaternary uranium chalcogenides among the compounds A2M3UQ6 (A = K, Rb, Cs; M = Pd, Pt; Q = S, Se)

Nine compounds from the series A(2)M(3)UQ(6) (A = K or Rb or Cs; M = Pd or Pt; Q = S or Se) were synthesized by reacting U, M, and Q in ACl or A(2)Q(x) fluxes. These compounds crystallize with eight formula units in the NaBa(2)Cu(3)O(6) structure type, in space group Fmmm of the orthorhombic system. The structure contains hexagons formed from six edge-sharing square-planar coordinated M atoms, which in turn edge-share with trigonal-prismatically coordinated U atoms, forming layers along (010). These layers are separated by A atoms. Electrical resistivity measurements along the [100] direction of Rb(2)Pd(3)US(6) show typical semiconductor behavior. Magnetic susceptibility measurements on Rb(2)Pd(3)US(6) display marked magnetic anisotropy and unusually low magnetic moments owing to crystalline electric field effects.     

Synthesis and characterization of Mo(6) chalcobromides and cyano-substituted compounds built from a novel [(Mo(6)Br(i)(6)Y(i)(2))L(a)(6)](n)()(-) discrete cluster unit (Y(i) = S or Se and L(a) = Br or CN)

The syntheses, crystal structures determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, and characterizations of new Mo(6) cluster chalcobromides and cyano-substituted compounds with 24 valence electrons per Mo(6) cluster (VEC = 24), are presented in this work. The structures of Cs(4)Mo(6)Br(12)S(2) and Cs(4)Mo(6)Br(12)Se(2) prepared by solid state routes are based on the novel [(Mo(6)Br(i)(6)Y(i)(2))Br(a)(6)](4)(-) (Y = S, Se) discrete units in which two chalcogen and six bromine ligands randomly occupy the inner positions, while the six apical ones are fully occupied by bromine atoms. The interaction of these two compounds with aqueous KCN solution results in apical ligand exchange giving the two first Mo(6) cyano-chalcohalides: Cs(0.4)K(0.6)(Et(4)N)(11)[(Mo(6)Br(6)S(2))(CN)(6)](3).16H(2)O and Cs(0.4)K(0.6)(Et(4)N)(11)[(Mo(6)Br(6)Se(2))(CN)(6)](3).16H(2)O. Their crystal structures, built from the original [(Mo(6)Br(i)(6)Y(i)(2))(CN)(a)(6)](4)(-) discrete units, will be compared to those of the two solid state precursors and other previously reported Mo(6) cluster compounds. Their redox properties and (77)Se NMR characterizations will be presented. Crystal data: Cs(4)Mo(6)Br(12)S(2), orthorhombic, Pbca (No. 61), a = 11.511(5) A, b = 18.772(5) A, c = 28.381 A (5), Z = 8; Cs(4)Mo(6)Br(12)Se(2), Pbca (No. 61), a = 11.6237(1) A, b = 18.9447(1) A, c = 28.4874(1) A, Z = 8; Cs(0.4)K(0.6)(Et(4)N)(11)[(Mo(6)Br(6)S(2))(CN)(6)](3).16H(2)O, Pm-3m (No. 221), a = 17.1969(4) A, Z = 1; Cs(0.4)K(0.6)(Et(4)N)(11)[(Mo(6)Br(6)Se(2))(CN)(6)](3).16H(2)O, Pm-3m (No. 221), a = 17.235(5) A, Z = 1.     

A series of new alkali metal indium iodates with isolated or extended anions

Systematic explorations of new phases in the A(I)-In(III)-I(V)-O system by hydrothermal reactions led to five new compounds, namely, AIn(IO(3))(4) (A = Li, Na), Rb(3)In(IO(3))(6) and A(2)HIn(IO(3))(6) (A = Rb, Cs). The structure of AIn(IO(3))(4) (A = Li, Na) contains one-dimensional [In(IO(3))(4)](-) chains separated by Li(+) or Na(+) cations. In both compounds, each In(3+) cation is octahedrally coordinated by six IO(3)(-) anions, neighboring In(3+) cations are interconnected by bidentate bridging iodate anions into 1D chains. The structures of Rb(3)In(IO(3))(6) and A(2)HIn(IO(3))(6) (A = Rb, Cs) all feature isolated [In(IO(3))(6)](3-) anions with alkali metal ions (and H(+) ions) as spacers. Both optical diffuse reflectance spectrum measurements and band structure calculations based on DFT methods indicate that LiIn(IO(3))(4), NaIn(IO(3))(4), and Rb(2)HIn(IO(3))(6) are insulators.     

Periodic trends in hexanuclear actinide clusters

Four new Th(IV), U(IV), and Np(IV) hexanuclear clusters with 1,2-phenylenediphosphonate as the bridging ligand have been prepared by self-assembly at room temperature. The structures of Th(6)Tl(3)[C(6)H(4)(PO(3))(PO(3)H)](6)(NO(3))(7)(H(2)O)(6)·(NO(3))(2)·4H(2)O (Th6-3), (NH(4))(8.11)Np(12)Rb(3.89)[C(6)H(4)(PO(3))(PO(3)H)](12)(NO(3))(24)·15H(2)O (Np6-1), (NH(4))(4)U(12)Cs(8)[C(6)H(4)(PO(3))(PO(3)H)](12)(NO(3))(24)·18H(2)O (U6-1), and (NH(4))(4)U(12)Cs(2)[C(6)H(4)(PO(3))(PO(3)H)](12)(NO(3))(18)·40H(2)O (U6-2) are described and compared with other clusters of containing An(IV) or Ce(IV). All of the clusters share the common formula M(6)(H(2)O)(m)[C(6)H(3)(PO(3))(PO(3)H)](6)(NO(3))(n)((6-n)) (M = Ce, Th, U, Np, Pu). The metal centers are normally nine-coordinate, with five oxygen atoms from the ligand and an additional four either occupied by NO(3)(-) or H(2)O. It was found that the Ce, U, and Pu clusters favor both C(3i) and C(i) point groups, while Th only yields in C(i), and Np only C(3i). In the C(3i) clusters, there are two NO(3)(-) anions bonded to the metal centers. In the C(i) clusters, the number of NO(3)(-) anions varies from 0 to 2. The change in the ionic radius of the actinide ions tunes the cavity size of the clusters. The thorium clusters were found to accept larger ions including Cs(+) and Tl(+), whereas with uranium and later elements, only NH(4)(+) and/or Rb(+) reside in the center of the clusters.     

Mixed-metal uranium(VI) iodates: hydrothermal syntheses,structures, and reactivity of Rb[UO(2)(CrO(4))(IO(3))(H(2)O)], A(2)[UO(2)(CrO(4))(IO(3))(2)] (A = K,Rb, Cs), and K(2)[UO(2)(MoO(4))(IO(3))(2)

The reactions of the molecular transition metal iodates A[CrO(3)(IO(3))] (A = K, Rb, Cs) with UO(3) under mild hydrothermal conditions provide access to four new, one-dimensional, uranyl chromatoiodates, Rb[UO(2)(CrO(4))(IO(3))(H(2)O)] (1) and A(2)[UO(2)(CrO(4))(IO(3))(2)] (A = K (2), Rb (3), Cs (4)). Under basic conditions, MoO(3), UO(3), and KIO(4) can be reacted to form K(2)[UO(2)(MoO(4))(IO(3))(2)] (5), which is isostructural with 2 and 3. The structure of 1 consists of one-dimensional[UO(2)(CrO(4))(IO(3))(H(2)O)](-) ribbons that contain uranyl moieties bound by bridging chromate and iodate anions as well as a terminal water molecule to create [UO(7)] pentagonal bipyramidal environments around the U(VI) centers. These ribbons are separated from one another by Rb(+) cations. When the iodate content is increased in the hydrothermal reactions, the terminal water molecule is replaced by a monodentate iodate anion to yield 2-4. These ribbons can be further modified by replacing tetrahedral chromate anions with MoO(4)(2)(-) anions to yield isostructural, one-dimensional [UO(2)(MoO(4))(IO(3))(2)](2)(-) ribbons. Crystallographic data: 1, triclinic, space group P(-)1, a = 7.3133(5) A, b = 8.0561(6) A, c = 8.4870(6) A, alpha = 88.740(1) degrees, beta = 87.075(1) degrees, gamma = 71.672(1) degrees, Z = 2; 2, monoclinic, space group P2(1)/c, a = 11.1337(5) A, b = 7.2884(4) A, c = 15.5661(7) A, beta = 107.977(1) degrees, Z = 4; 3, monoclinic, space group P2(1)/c, a = 11.3463(6) A, b = 7.3263(4) A, c = 15.9332(8) A, beta = 108.173(1) degrees, Z = 4; 4, monoclinic, space group P2(1)/n, a = 7.3929(5) A, b = 8.1346(6) A, c = 22.126(2) A, beta = 90.647(1) degrees, Z = 4; 5, monoclinic, space group P2(1)/c, a = 11.3717(6) A, b = 7.2903(4) A, c = 15.7122(8) A, beta = 108.167(1) degrees, Z = 4.     

Rb(3)Ti(3)(P(4)S(13))(PS(4))(3) and Cs(2)Ti(2)(P(2)S(8))(PS(4))(2): two polar titanium thiophosphates with complex one-dimensional tunnels

The reactions of Ti with in situ formed polythiophosphate fluxes of A(2)S(3) (A = Rb, Cs), P(2)S(5), and S at 500 degrees C result in the formation of two new quaternary titanium thiophosphates with compositions Rb(3)Ti(3)(P(4)S(13))(PS(4))(3) (1) and Cs(2)Ti(2)(P(2)S(8))(PS(4))(2) (2). Rb(3)Ti(3)(P(4)S(13))(PS(4))(3) (1) crystallizes in the chiral hexagonal space group P6(3) (No. 173) with lattice parameters a = 18.2475(9) Angstrom, c = 6.8687(3) Angstrom, V = 1980.7(2) Angstrom(3), Z = 2. Cs(2)Ti(2)(P(2)S(8))(PS(4))(2) (2) crystallizes in the noncentrosymmetric monoclinic space group Cc (No. 9) with a = 21.9709(14) Angstrom, b = 6.9093(3) Angstrom, c = 17.1489(10) Angstrom, beta = 98.79(1) degrees, V = 2572.7(2) Angstrom(3), Z = 4. In the structure of 1 TiS(6) octahedra, three [PS(4)] tetrahedra, and the hitherto unknown [P(4)S(13)](6-) anion are joined to form two different types of helical chains. These chains are connected yielding two different helical tunnels being directed along [001]. The tunnels are occupied by the Rb+ ions. The [P(4)S(13)](6-) anion is generated by three [PS(4)] tetrahedra sharing corners with one [PS(4)] group in the center of the starlike anion. The P atoms of the three [PS(4)] tetrahedra attached to the central [PS(4)] group define an equilateral triangle. The [P(4)S(13)](6-) anion may be regarded as a new member of the [P(n)S(3n+1)]((n+2)-) series. The structure of Cs(2)Ti(2)(P(2)S(8))(PS(4))(2) (2) consists of the one-dimensional polar tunnels containing the Cs(+) cations. The rare [P(2)S(8)](4-) anion which is composed of two [PS(4)] tetrahedra joined by a S(2)(2-) anion is a fundamental building unit in the structure of 2. One-dimensional undulated chains being directed along [100] are joined by [PS(4)] tetrahedra to form the three-dimensional network with polar tunnels running along [010]. The compounds are characterized with IR, Raman spectroscopy, and UV/vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy.     

Bending, twisting, and breaking CuCN chains to produce framework materials: the reactions of CuCN with alkali-metal halides

The reactions of the low-temperature polymorph of copper(I) cyanide (LT-CuCN) with concentrated aqueous alkali-metal halide solutions have been investigated. At room temperature, KX (X = Br and I) and CsX (X = Cl, Br, and I) produce the addition products K[Cu(2)(CN)(2)Br].H(2)O (I), K(3)[Cu(6)(CN)(6)I(3)].2H(2)O (II), Cs[Cu(3)(CN)(3)Cl] (III), Cs[Cu(3)(CN)(3)Br] (IV), and Cs(2)[Cu(4)(CN)(4)I(2)].H(2)O (V), with 3-D frameworks in which the -(CuCN)- chains present in CuCN persist. No reaction occurs, however, with NaX (X = Cl, Br, I) or KCl. The addition compounds, I-V, reconvert to CuCN when washed. Both low- and high-temperature polymorphs of CuCN (LT- and HT-CuCN) are produced, except in the case of Cs[Cu(3)(CN)(3)Cl] (III), which converts only to LT-CuCN. Heating similar AX-CuCN reaction mixtures under hydrothermal conditions at 453 K for 1 day produces single crystals of I-V suitable for structure determination. Under these more forcing conditions, reactions also occur with NaX (X = Cl, Br, I) and KCl. NaBr and KCl cause some conversion of LT-CuCN into HT-CuCN, while NaCl and NaI, respectively, react to form the mixed-valence Cu(I)/Cu(II) compounds [Cu(II)(OH(2))(4)][Cu(I)(4)(CN)(6)], a known phase, and [Cu(II)(OH(2))(4)][Cu(I)(4)(CN)(4)I(2)] (VI), a 3-D framework, which contains infinite -(CuCN)- chains. After 3 days of heating under hydrothermal conditions, the reaction between KI and CuCN produces [Cu(II)(OH(2))(4)][Cu(I)(2)(CN)I(2)](2) (VII), in which the CuCN chains are broken into single Cu-CN-Cu units, which in turn are linked into chains via iodine atoms and then into layers via long Cu-C and Cu-Cu interactions.     

Chemistry in Molten Alkali Metal Polyselenophosphate Fluxes. Influence of Flux Composition on Dimensionality. Layers and Chains in APbPSe(4), A(4)Pb(PSe(4))(2) (A = Rb, Cs), and K(4)Eu(PSe(4))(2)

The reaction of Pb and Eu with a molten mixture of A(2)Se/P(2)Se(5)/Se produced the quaternary compounds APbPSe(4), A(4)Pb(PSe(4))(2) (A = Rb,Cs), and K(4)Eu(PSe(4))(2). The red crystals of APbPSe(4) are stable in air and water. The orange crystals of A(4)Pb(PSe(4))(2) and K(4)Eu(PSe(4))(2) disintegrate in water and over a long exposure to air. CsPbPSe(4) crystallizes in the orthorhombic space group Pnma (No. 62) with a = 18.607(4) ?, b = 7.096(4) ?, c = 6.612(4) ?, and Z = 4. Rb(4)Pb(PSe(4))(2) crystallizes in the orthorhombic space group Ibam (No. 72) with a = 19.134(9) ?, b = 9.369(3) ?, c = 10.488(3) ?, and Z = 4. The isomorphous K(4)Eu(PSe(4))(2) has a = 19.020(4) ?, b = 9.131(1) ?, c = 10.198(2) ?, and Z = 4. The APbPSe(4) have a layered structure with [PbPSe(4)](n)()(n)()(-) layers separated by A(+) ions. The coordination geometry around Pb is trigonal prismatic. The layers are composed of chains of edge sharing trigonal prisms running along the b-direction. [PSe(4)](3)(-) tetrahedra link these chains along the c-direction by sharing edges and corners with the trigonal prisms. A(4)M(PSe(4))(2) (M = Pb, Eu) has an one-dimensional structure in which [M(PSe(4))(2)](n)()(n)()(-) chains are separated by A(+) ions. The coordination geometry around M is a distorted dodecahedron. Two [PSe(4)](3)(-) ligands bridge two adjacent metal atoms, using three selenium atoms each, forming in this way a chain along the c-direction. The solid state optical absorption spectra of the compounds are reported. All compounds melt congruently in the 597-620 degrees C region.     

Synthesis, structure, and properties of Cs(4)Th(4)P(4)Se(26): a quaternary thorium selenophosphate containing the (P(2)Se(9))(6-) anion

Orange crystals of Cs(4)Th(4)P(4)Se(26) were grown from the reaction of (232)Th and P in a Cs(2)Se(3)/Se molten salt flux at 750 degrees C. Cs(4)Th(4)P(4)Se(26) crystallizes in the orthorhombic space group Pbca with the unit cell parameters: a = 12.0130(6), b = 14.5747(7), c = 27.134(1) A; Z = 8. The compound exhibits a three-dimensional structure, consisting of dimeric [Th(2)Se(13)] polyhedral units. The two crystallographically independent, nine-coordinate, bicapped trigonal prismatic thorium atoms share a triangular face to form the dimer, and each dimer edge-shares two selenium atoms with two other dimers to form kinked chains along the [010] direction. While this structure shares features of the previously reported Rb(4)U(4)P(4)Se(26), including phosphorus in the 5+ oxidation state, careful inspection of the structure reveals that the selenophosphate anion that knits the structure together in three directions in both compounds is a unique (P(2)Se(9))(6-) anion. The formula may be described best as [Cs(2)Th(2)(P(2)Se(9))(Se(2))(2)](2). The (P(2)Se(9))(6-) anion features a nearly linear Se-Se-Se backbone with an angle of 171 degrees and Se-Se distances that are approximately 0.2-0.3 A longer than the typical single Se-Se bond. Magnetic studies confirm that this phase contains Th(IV). Raman data for this compound is reported, and structural comparisons will be drawn to its uranium analogue, Rb(4)U(4)P(4)Se(26).     

Syntheses and characterization of six quaternary uranium chalcogenides a(2)m(4)u(6)q(17) (a = rb or cs; m = pd or pt; q = s or se)

The A(2)M(4)U(6)Q(17) compounds Rb(2)Pd(4)U(6)S(17), Rb(2)Pd(4)U(6)Se(17), Rb(2)Pt(4)U(6)Se(17), Cs(2)Pd(4)U(6)S(17), Cs(2)Pd(4)U(6)Se(17), and Cs(2)Pt(4)U(6)Se(17) were synthesized by the high-temperature solid-state reactions of U, M, and Q in a flux of ACl or Rb(2)S(3). These isostructural compounds crystallize in a new structure type, with two formula units in the tetragonal space group P4/mnc. This structure consists of a network of square-planar MQ(4), monocapped trigonal-prismatic UQ(7), and square-antiprismatic UQ(8) polyhedra with A atoms in the voids. Rb(2)Pd(4)U(6)S(17) is a typical semiconductor, as deduced from electrical resistivity measurements. Magnetic susceptibility and specific heat measurements on single crystals of Rb(2)Pd(4)U(6)S(17) show a phase transition at 13 K, the result either of antiferromagnetic ordering or of a structural phase transition. Periodic spin-polarized band structure calculations were performed on Rb(2)Pd(4)U(6)S(17) with the use of the first principles DFT program VASP. Magnetic calculations included spin-orbit coupling. With U f-f correlations taken into account within the GGA+U formalism in calculating partial densities of states, the compound is predicted to be a narrow-band semiconductor with the smallest indirect and direct band gaps being 0.79 and 0.91 eV, respectively.     

Metal-controlled assembly of uranyl diphosphonates toward the design of functional uranyl nanotubules

Two uranyl nanotubules with elliptical cross sections were synthesized in high yield from complex and large oxoanions using hydrothermal reactions of uranyl salts with 1,4-benzenebisphosphonic acid or 4,4'-biphenylenbisphosphonic acid and Cs(+) or Rb(+) cations in the presence of hydrofluoric acid. Disordered Cs(+)/Rb(+) cations and solvent molecules are present within and/or between the nanotubules. Ion-exchange experiments with A(2){(UO(2))(2)F(PO(3)HC(6)H(4)C(6)H(4)PO(3)H)(PO(3)HC(6)H(4)C(6)H(4)PO(3))}·2H(2)O (A = Cs(+), Rb(+)), revealed that A(+) cations can be exchanged for Ag(+) ions. The uranyl phenyldiphosphonate nanotubules, Cs(3.62)H(0.38)[(UO(2))(4){C(6)H(4)(PO(2)OH)(2)}(3){C(6)H(4)(PO(3))(2)}F(2)]·nH(2)O, show high stability and exceptional ion-exchange properties toward monovalent cations, as demonstrated by ion-exchange studies with selected cations, Na(+), K(+), Tl(+), and Ag(+). Studies on ion-exchanged single crystal using scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDS) provide evidence for chemical zonation in Cs(3.62)H(0.38)[(UO(2))(4){C(6)H(4)(PO(2)OH)(2)}(3){C(6)H(4)(PO(3))(2)}F(2)]·nH(2)O, as might be expected for exchange through a diffusion mechanism.     

Open-framework and microporous vanadium silicates

A series of novel vanadium silicates with open-framework and microporous structures has been synthesized under mild hydrothermal conditions. Ten distinct framework types have been identified that all have structures based on cross-linking single silicate sheets with square pyramidal V(IV)O(5) units to give compounds with the general formula A(r)[(VO)(s)(Si(2)O(5))(p)(SiO(2))(q)].tH(2)O, where A is Na, K, Rb, Cs, or a combination. The vanadosilicate (VSH-n) structures have free channel diameters up to 6.5 A and show good thermal stability, absorption, and ion-exchange properties, suggesting their potential for technological applications as molecular sieves or in catalysis.     

Raman microscopy of synthetic goudeyite (YCu6(AsO4)2(OH)6 x 3H2O)

Raman microscopy has been used to study the molecular structure of a synthetic goudeyite (YCu(6)(AsO(4))(3)(OH)(6) x 3H(2)O). These types of minerals have a porous framework similar to that of zeolites with a structure based upon (A(3+))(1-x)(A(2+))(x)Cu(6)(OH)(6)(AsO(4))(3-x)(AsO(3)OH)(x). Two sets of AsO stretching vibrations were found and assigned to the vibrational modes of AsO(4) and HAsO(4) units. Two Raman bands are observed in the region 885-915 and 867-870 cm(-1) region and are assigned to the AsO stretching vibrations of (HAsO(4))(2-) and (H(2)AsO(4))(-) units. The position of the bands indicates a C(2v) symmetry of the (H(2)AsO(4))(-) anion. Two bands are found at around 800 and 835 cm(-1) and are assigned to the stretching vibrations of uncomplexed (AsO(4))(3-) units. Bands are observed at around 435, 403 and 395 cm(-1) and are assigned to the nu(2) bending modes of the HAsO(4) (434 and 400 cm(-1)) and the AsO(4) groups (324 cm(-1)).