The Rare Earth Metal-Rich Indides RE 4RhIn ( RE = Gd–Tm, Lu)

The rare earth-transition metal-indides RE ₄RhIn (RE = Gd–Tm, Lu) were prepared by arc-melting of the elements and subsequent annealing. Single crystals were grown via slowly cooling of the samples. The indides were investigated via X-ray powder diffraction and several structures were refined from X-ray single crystal diffractometer data: F[`4]3mF{\bar 4}3m , a = 1370.7(9) pm, wR2 = 0.049, 428 F ² values for Gd₄RhIn, a = 1360.3(6) pm, wR2 = 0.028, 420 F ² values for Tb₄RhIn, a = 1354.5(2) pm, wR2 = 0.041, 380 F ² values for Dy₄RhIn, a = 1349.2(3) pm, wR2 = 0.029, 410 F ² values for Ho₄RhIn, a = 1342.5(5) pm, wR2 = 0.037, 403 F ² values for Er₄RhIn, a = 1337.8(3) pm, wR2 = 0.038, 394 F ² values for Tm₄RhIn with 14 variable parameters per refinement, and a = 1329.7(3) pm for Lu₄RhIn. In this new structure type, the rhodium atoms have a trigonal prismatic rare earth coordination. Condensation of the RhRE ₆ prisms leads to a three-dimensional network which leaves voids that are filled by regular In₄ tetrahedra (317 pm In–In distance) in Gd₄RhIn. The indium atoms have twelve nearest neighbors (3 In + 9 RE) in icosahedral coordination. The gadolinium atoms build up a three-dimensional, adamantane-like network of condensed, face-sharing empty octahedra.     

Cobalt Centered Trigonal RE6 Prisms and Mg4 Clusters as Basic Structural Units in RE4CoMg (RE = Y,La, Pr,Nd, Sm,Gd–Tm)

The new rare earth metal rich intermetallic compounds RE₄CoMg (RE = Y, La, Pr, Nd, Sm, Gd–Tm) were prepared via melting of the elements in sealed tantalum tubes in a water‐cooled sample chamber of a high‐frequency furnace. The compounds were investigated by X‐ray diffraction of powders and single crystals: Gd₄RhIn type, , a = 1428.38(9) pm, wR2 = 0.0638, 680 F² values, 20 variables for La₄CoMg, a = 1399.5(2) pm, wR2 = 0.0584, 589 F² values, 20 variables for Pr₄CoMg, a = 1390.2(3) pm, wR2 = 0.0513, 634 F² values, 20 variables for Nd_3.90CoMg_1.10, a = 1381.0(3) pm, wR2 = 0.0730, 618 F² values, 22 variables for Sm_3.92Co_0.93Mg_1.08, a = 1373.1(4) pm, wR2 = 0.0586, 611 F² values, 20 variables for Gd_3.92CoMg_1.08, a = 1362.1(3) pm, wR2 = 0.0576, 590 F² values, 20 variables for Tb_3.77CoMg_1.23, a = 1344.8(2) pm, wR2 = 0.0683, 511 F² values, 20 variables for Dy_3.27CoMg_1.73, and a = 1343.3(2) pm, wR2 = 0.0560, 542 F² values, 20 variables for Er_3.72CoMg_1.28. The cobalt atoms have trigonal prismatic rare earth coordination. Condensation of the CoRE₆ prisms leads to a three‐dimensional network which leaves larger voids that are filled by regular Mg₄ tetrahedra at a Mg–Mg distance of 316 pm in La₄CoMg. The magnesium atoms have twelve nearest neighbors (3 Mg + 9 RE) in icosahedral coordination. In the structures with Nd, Sm, Gd, Tb, Dy, and Er, the RE1 positions which are not involved in the trigonal prismatic network reveal some RE1/Mg mixing and the Sm_3.92Co_0.93Mg_1.08 structure shows small cobalt defects. Considering La₄CoMg as representative of all studied systems an analysis of the chemical bonding within density functional theory closely reproduces the crystal chemistry scheme and shows the role played by the valence states of the different constituents in the electronic band structure. Strong bonding interactions were observed between the lanthanum and cobalt atoms within the trigonal prismatic network.     

The Rare Earth Metal-Rich Indides <Emphasis Type="Italic">RE</Emphasis><Subscript>4</Subscript>RhIn (<Emphasis Type="Italic">RE</Emphasis> = Gd–Tm,Lu)

Summary. The rare earth-transition metal-indides RE ₄RhIn (RE = Gd–Tm, Lu) were prepared by arc-melting of the elements and subsequent annealing. Single crystals were grown via slowly cooling of the samples. The indides were investigated via X-ray powder diffraction and several structures were refined from X-ray single crystal diffractometer data: , a = 1370.7(9) pm, wR2 = 0.049, 428 F ² values for Gd₄RhIn, a = 1360.3(6) pm, wR2 = 0.028, 420 F ² values for Tb₄RhIn, a = 1354.5(2) pm, wR2 = 0.041, 380 F ² values for Dy₄RhIn, a = 1349.2(3) pm, wR2 = 0.029, 410 F ² values for Ho₄RhIn, a = 1342.5(5) pm, wR2 = 0.037, 403 F ² values for Er₄RhIn, a = 1337.8(3) pm, wR2 = 0.038, 394 F ² values for Tm₄RhIn with 14 variable parameters per refinement, and a = 1329.7(3) pm for Lu₄RhIn. In this new structure type, the rhodium atoms have a trigonal prismatic rare earth coordination. Condensation of the RhRE ₆ prisms leads to a three-dimensional network which leaves voids that are filled by regular In₄ tetrahedra (317 pm In–In distance) in Gd₄RhIn. The indium atoms have twelve nearest neighbors (3 In + 9 RE) in icosahedral coordination. The gadolinium atoms build up a three-dimensional, adamantane-like network of condensed, face-sharing empty octahedra.     

Rare earth metal-rich indides RE14Rh3−xIn3 (RE=Y, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Lu)

The rare earth (RE) metal-rich indides RE₁₄Rh_3-xIn₃ (RE=Y, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Lu) can be synthesized from the elements by arc-melting or induction melting in tantalum crucibles. They were investigated by X-ray diffraction on powders and single crystals: Lu₁₄Co₃In₃ type, space group P4₂/nmc, Z=4, a=961.7(1), c=2335.5(5) pm, wR2=0.052, 2047 F² values, 62 variables for Y₁₄Rh₃In₃, a=956.8(1), c=2322.5(5) pm, wR2=0.068, 1730 F² values, 63 variables for Dy₁₄Rh_2.89(1)In₃, a=952.4(1), c=2309.2(5) pm, wR2=0.041, 1706 F² values, 63 variables for Ho₁₄Rh_2.85(1)In₃, a=948.6(1), c=2302.8(5) pm, wR2=0.053, 1977 F² values, 63 variables for Er₁₄Rh_2.86(1)In₃, a=943.8(1), c=2291.5(5) pm, wR2=0.065, 1936 F² values, 63 variables for Tm₁₄Rh_2.89(1)In₃, and a=937.8(1), c=2276.5(5) pm, wR2=0.050, 1637 F² values, 63 variables for Lu₁₄Rh_2.74(1)In₃. Except Yb₁₄Rh₃In₃, the 8g Rh1 sites show small defects. Striking structural motifs are rhodium-centered trigonal prisms formed by the RE atoms with comparatively short Rh-RE distances (271-284 pm in Y₁₄Rh₃In₃). These prisms are condensed via common corners and edges building two-dimensional polyhedral units. Both crystallographically independent indium sites show distorted icosahedral coordination. The icosahedra around In2 are interpenetrating, leading to In2-In2 pairs (309 pm in Y₁₄Rh₃In₃).     

Syntheses and Crystal Structure of the Ternary Silicides RE2Si2Mg (RE = Y, La–Nd, Sm, Gd–Lu) and Structure Refinement of Dy5Si3

Summary. The rare earth metal–magnesium–silicides RE₂Si₂Mg (RE = Y, La–Nd, Sm, Gd–Lu) were prepared by induction melting of the elements in sealed tantalum tubes in a water-cooled sample chamber of a high-frequency furnace. The silicides were investigated via X-ray powder diffraction. The structures of Sm₂Si₂Mg and Dy₂Si₂Mg were refined from X-ray single crystal diffractometer data: Mo₂FeB₂ type, P4/mbm, a = 727.86(7), c = 428.16(6) pm, wR2 = 0.0194, 206 F² values, 13 variable parameters for Sm₂Si₂Mg and a = 713.85(7), c = 419.07(6) pm, wR2 = 0.0331, 286 F² values, 12 variable parameters for Dy₂Si₂Mg. The samarium compound shows a small homogeneity range Sm_2+xSi₂Mg_1−x. The investigated single crystal had the refined composition Sm_2.022(3)Si₂Mg_0.978(3). The RE₂Si₂Mg silicides are 1:1 intergrowth structures of CsCl and AlB₂ related slabs of compositions REMg and RESi₂. Crystals of the binary silicide Dy₅Si₃ were obtained as side product. The structure was refined from X-ray single crystal data: Mn₅Si₃ type, P6₃/mcm, a = 841.0(2), c = 631.3(1) pm, wR2 = 0.0661, 269 F² values, 12 variable parameters.     

Rare earth metal rich magnesium compounds RE4NiMg (RE=Y, Pr-Nd, Sm, Gd-Tm, Lu)—Synthesis, structure, and hydrogenation behavior

The rare earth metal rich compounds RE₄NiMg (RE=Y, Pr-Nd, Sm, Gd-Tm, Lu) were synthesized from the elements in sealed tantalum tubes in an induction furnace. All compounds were investigated by X-ray diffraction on powders and single crystals: Gd₄RhIn type, space group F4¯3m, Z=16, a=1367.6(2) pm for Y₄NiMg, a=1403.7(3) pm for Pr₄NiMg, a=1400.7(1) pm for Nd₄NiMg, a=1386.5(2) pm for Sm₄NiMg, a=1376.1(2) pm for Gd₄NiMg, a=1362.1(1) pm for Tb₄NiMg, a=1355.1(2) pm for Dy₄NiMg, a=1355.2(1) pm for Ho₄NiMg, a=1354.3(2) pm for Er₄NiMg, a=1342.9(3) pm for Tm₄NiMg, and a=1336.7(3) pm for Lu₄NiMg. The nickel atoms have trigonal prismatic rare earth coordination. These NiRE₆ prisms are condensed via common edges to a three-dimensional network which leaves voids for Mg₄ tetrahedra and the RE1 atoms which show only weak coordination to the nickel atoms. The single crystal data indicate two kinds of solid solutions. The RE1 positions reveal small RE1/Mg mixing and some compounds also show Ni/Mg mixing within the Mg₄ tetrahedra. Y₄NiMg and Gd₄NiMg have been tested for hydrogenation. These compounds absorb up to eleven hydrogen atoms per formula unit under a hydrogen pressure of 1 MPa at room temperature. The structure of the metal atoms is maintained with only an increase of the lattice parameters (ΔV/V≈22%) if the absorption is done at T<363 K as at higher temperature a decomposition into REH₂-REH₃ hydrides occurred. Moreover, the hydrogenation affects drastically the magnetic properties of these intermetallics. For instance, Gd₄NiMg exhibits an antiferromagnetic behavior below T_N=92 K whereas its hydride Gd₄NiMgH₁₁ is paramagnetic down to 1.8 K.     

Complex Borides RERu4B4 (RE = Ce,Pr, Nd,Sm) – Bonding Peculiarities and Magnetic Properties

The rare earth borides RERu₄B₄ (RE = Ce, Pr, Nd, Sm) were synthesized from the elements by arc‐melting and their crystal structures were studied on the basis of X‐ray powder and single‐crystal diffraction: LuRu₄B₄ type, I4₁/acd, a = 747.47(8), c = 1506.4(3) pm, wR₂ = 0.0579, 362 F² values for CeRu₄B₄, a = 751.3(2), c = 1507.1(5) pm, wR₂ = 0.0724, 471 F² values for PrRu₄B₄, a = 751.0(2), c = 1506.9(6) pm, wR₂ = 0.0598, 384 F² values for NdRu₄B₄, and a = 749.1(1), c = 1506.0(3) pm, wR₂ = 0.0759, 413 F² values for SmRu₄B₄, with 18 variables per refinement. Striking structural motifs of the RERu₄B₄ structures are Ru₄ tetrahedra and B₂ dumbbells with Ru–Ru and B–B distances of 271 and 180 pm in CeRu₄B₄. The intermediate valence of cerium leads to shorter Ce–Ru distances of 292 pm. CeRu₄B₄ behaves like a Pauli paramagnet with a small room temperature susceptibility of 1.5 × 10^–4 emu · mol^–1. Chemical bonding analyses shows substantial Ru–B and B–B bonding within the [Ru₄B₄] substructure.     

New rare earth metal-rich indides RE14Ni3In3 (RE=Sc, Y, Gd-Tm, Lu)—synthesis and crystal chemistry

The rare earth-nickel-indides RE₁₄Ni₃In₃ (RE=Sc, Y, Gd-Tm, Lu) were synthesized from the elements by arc-melting and subsequent annealing. The compounds were investigated on the basis of X-ray powder and single crystal data: Lu₁₄Co₂In₃ type, P4₂/nmc, Z=4, a=888.1(1), c=2134.7(4), wR2=0.0653, 1381 F² values, 63 variables for Sc_13.89Ni_3.66In_2.45; a=961.2(1), c=2316.2(5), wR2=0.0633, 1741 F² values, 64 variables for Y_13.84Ni_3.19In_2.97; a=965.3(1), c=2330.5(5), wR2=0.0620, 1765 F² values, 63 variables for Gd₁₄Ni_3.29In_2.71; a=956.8(1), c=2298.4(5), wR2=0.0829, 1707 F² values, 64 variables for Tb_13.82Ni_3.36In_2.82; a=951.7(1), c=2289.0(5), wR2=0.0838, 1794 F² values, 64 variables for Dy_13.60Ni_3.34In_3.06; a=948.53(7), c=2270.6(1), wR2=0.1137, 1191 F² values, 64 variables for Ho_13.35Ni_3.17In_3.48; a=943.5(1), c=2269.1(5), wR2=0.0552, 1646 F² values, 64 variables for Er_13.53Ni_3.14In_3.33; a=938.42(7), c=2250.8(1), wR2=0.1051, 1611 F² values, 64 variables for Tm_13.47Ni_3.28In_3.25; a=937.3(1), c=2249.6(5), wR2=0.0692, 1604 F² values, 64 variables for Tm_13.80Ni_3.49In_2.71; and a=933.4(1), c=2263.0(5), wR2=0.0709, 1603 F² values, 64 variables for Lu_13.94Ni_3.07In_2.99. The RE₁₄Ni₃In₃ indides show significant Ni/In mixing on the 4c In1 site. Except the gadolinium compound, the RE₁₄Ni₃In₃ intermetallics also reveal RE/In mixing on the 4c RE1 site, leading to the refined compositions. Due to the high rare earth metal content, the seven crystallographically independent RE sites have between 9 and 10 nearest RE neighbors. The RE₁₄Ni₃In₃ structures can be described as a complex intergrowth of rare earth-based polyhedra. Both nickel sites have a distorted trigonal-prismatic rare earth coordination. An interesting feature is the In2-In2 dumb-bell at an In2-In2 distance of 304 pm (for Gd₁₄Ni_3.29In_2.71). The crystal chemical peculiarities of the RE₁₄Ni₃In₃ indides are briefly discussed.     

Structure and Properties of GdTMg (T=Pd, Ag, Pt)

The title compounds were prepared by reacting the elements in sealed tantalum tubes in a water-cooled sample chamber in a high-frequency furnace. X-ray powder and single-crystal investigations showed isotypism with the ZrNiAl type, space group P&6macr;2m: a=750.1(1) pm, c=404.10(4) pm, wR2=0.0703, 250 F² values, 14 parameters for GdPdMg, a=768.0(2) pm, c=419.92(9) pm, wR2=0.0579, 261 F² values, 16 parameters for GdAgMg, and a=738.0(1) pm, c=409.02(5) pm, wR2=0.0742, 244 F² values, 14 parameters for GdPtMg. The structures contain two crystallographically different transition metal (T) sites which both have a tricapped trigonal prismatic coordination: [T(1)Gd₆Mg₃] and [T(2)Mg₆Gd₃]. Together the transition metal and magnesium atoms build three-dimensional networks in which the gadolinium atoms fill distorted hexagonal channels. The magnesium position of the silver compound shows a small degree of magnesium/silver mixing resulting in the composition GdAg_1.06(1)Mg_0.94(1) for the crystal investigated. The magnetic properties of all compounds were investigated using AC and DC susceptibility as well as ¹⁵⁵Gd Mössbauer spectroscopy measurements. All investigated materials show irreversibilities between field cooled and zero-field-cooled DC magnetizations and magnetic hysteresis behavior as is typical for ferromagnets. The remanent magnetizations and coercive fields are relatively small. The Curie temperatures were determined from inflection points of the experimental susceptibilities. Additional anomalies below the ferromagnetic transitions suggest spin-reorientation processes.     

Syntheses and Crystal Structure of the Ternary Silicides RE2Si2Mg (RE = Y, La–Nd, Sm, Gd–Lu) and Structure Refinement of Dy5Si3

The rare earth metal–magnesium–silicides RE₂Si₂Mg (RE = Y, La–Nd, Sm, Gd–Lu) were prepared by induction melting of the elements in sealed tantalum tubes in a water-cooled sample chamber of a high-frequency furnace. The silicides were investigated via X-ray powder diffraction. The structures of Sm₂Si₂Mg and Dy₂Si₂Mg were refined from X-ray single crystal diffractometer data: Mo₂FeB₂ type, P4/mbm, a = 727.86(7), c = 428.16(6) pm, wR2 = 0.0194, 206 F² values, 13 variable parameters for Sm₂Si₂Mg and a = 713.85(7), c = 419.07(6) pm, wR2 = 0.0331, 286 F² values, 12 variable parameters for Dy₂Si₂Mg. The samarium compound shows a small homogeneity range Sm_2+xSi₂Mg_1−x. The investigated single crystal had the refined composition Sm_2.022(3)Si₂Mg_0.978(3). The RE₂Si₂Mg silicides are 1:1 intergrowth structures of CsCl and AlB₂ related slabs of compositions REMg and RESi₂. Crystals of the binary silicide Dy₅Si₃ were obtained as side product. The structure was refined from X-ray single crystal data: Mn₅Si₃ type, P6₃/mcm, a = 841.0(2), c = 631.3(1) pm, wR2 = 0.0661, 269 F² values, 12 variable parameters.     

Syntheses and Crystal Structures of LaRhMg,CeRhMg, PrRhMg,and NdRhMg

New intermetallic rare earth compounds LaRhMg, CeRhMg, PrRhMg, and NdRhMg were prepared by reaction of the elements in sealed tantalum tubes in a high‐frequency furnace. The compounds were investigated by X‐ray diffraction both on powders and single crystals. LaRhMg crystallizes with the LaNiAl type structure, space group Pnma, Z = 8, a = 760.1(2), b = 419.92(8), c = 1702.6(2) pm, wR2 = 0.0482, 740 F² values and 38 variable parameters. The cerium compound adopts the ZrNiAl structure: P6¯2m, Z = 3, a = 752.3(1), c = 417.6(1) pm, wR2 = 0.0497, 250 F²2 values and 17 variable parameters. PrRhMg and NdRhMg crystallize with the TiNiSi type: Pnma, Z = 4, a = 721.62(7), b = 415.98(4), c = 869.47(8) pm, wR2 = 0.1864, 440 F² values, 20 variables for PrRhMg and a = 720.6(1), b = 417.6(1), c = 868.8(1) pm, wR2 = 0.0779, 425 F² values, 22 variables for NdRhMg. Refinements of the occupancy parameters revealed mixed Mg/Rh occupancy for the magnesium sites of the cerium and the neodymium compound leading to the compositions CeRh_1.262(8)Mg_0.738(8) and NdRh_1.114(9)Mg_0.886(9) for the investigated single crystals. From a geometrical point of view, the four crystal structures are built up from different rhodium centered trigonal prisms. The rhodium and magnesium atoms form three‐dimensional [RhMg] networks in which the rare earth metal atoms are located in different types of channels. The networks show Rh—Mg and Mg—Mg bonding.     

Transition Metal Centered Trigonal Prisms as Building Units in Various Rare Earth–Transition Metal-Indides

Summary. The rare earth–transition metal-indides GdPdIn, ErPdIn, YbPdIn, YPtIn, TmPtIn, Dy₄Pd₁₀In₂₁, PrPt₂In₂, and Tb₂Pt₇In₁₆ were prepared by arc-melting of the elements or by induction melting of the elements in sealed tantalum tubes in a water-cooled sample chamber of a high-frequency furnace. Single crystals of Dy₄Pd₁₀In₂₁ and Tb₂Pt₇In₁₆ were grown through special annealing procedures. The indides were investigated via X-ray powder diffraction and all structures were refined from X-ray single crystal diffractometer data: ZrNiAl type, , a = 767.8(3), c = 390.7(2) pm, wR2 = 0.0722, 356 F² values for GdPdIn; a = 766.7(3), c = 376.7(1) pm, wR2 = 0.0433, 348 F² values for ErPdIn; a = 757.2(2), c = 393.59(8) pm, wR2 = 0.0388, 434 F² values for YbPdIn; a = 758.2(2), c = 384.95(8) pm, wR2 = 0.0643, 353 F² values for YPtIn; and a = 753.4(1), c = 376.71(4) pm, wR2 = 0.0844, 310 F² values for TmPtIn, with 14 variable parameters per refinement. Dy₄Pd₁₀In₂₁ crystallizes with the monoclinic Ho₄Ni₁₀Ga₂₁ structure: C2/m, a = 2284.5(8), b = 441.0(2), c = 1931.4(7) pm, β = 132.74(2)°, wR2 = 0.0419, 1690 F² values, 112 variable parameters. PrPt₂In₂ adopts the CePt₂In₂ type: P2₁/m, a = 1013.2(3), b = 447.2(3), c = 1019.5(3) pm, β = 116.69(2)°, wR2 = 0.0607, 1259 F² values, 63 variable parameters. Tb₂Pt₇In₁₆ is the second representative of the orthorhombic Dy₂Pt₇In₁₆ type: Cmmm, a = 1211.6(2), b = 1997.1(4), c = 440.52(9) pm, wR2 = 0.0787, 1341 F² values, 45 variable parameters. The common structural motif of the four different structure types are transition metal centered trigonal prisms formed by the rare earth metal and indium atoms. These prisms are condensed via common corners or via In–In bonds. The crystal chemistry of the four different structure types is discussed.     

Magnetic,Optical, and Electronic Properties of the Phosphide Oxides REZnPO (RE = Y,La–Nd,Sm, Gd,Dy, Ho)

Well‐shaped yellow to red transparent single crystals of the phosphide oxides REZnPO (RE = Y, La–Nd, Sm, Gd, Dy, Ho) were synthesized from the elements and ZnO in NaCl/KCl fluxes in sealed silica ampoules. Four structures (NdZnPO type, R3m) were refined from single crystal X‐ray diffractometer data: a = 388.5(2), c = 3032(1) pm, wR2 = 0.0380, 360 F² values for YZnPO, a = 394.6(2), c = 3071(1) pm, wR2 = 0.0587, 226 F² values for SmZnPO, a = 392.2(2), c = 3056(1) pm, wR2 = 0.0262, 462 F² values for GdZnPO, and a = 389.33(6), c = 3030.5(4) pm, wR2 = 0.0453, 217 F² values for DyZnPO each with 14 variables per refinement. The structures are composed of alternate stacks of (RE³⁺O²⁻) and (Zn²⁺P³⁻) layers with covalent RE–O and ZñP bonding within and weak ionic bonding between the layers. The zinc and oxygen atoms have slightly distorted tetrahedral coordination by atoms of phosphorus and the rare earth element, respectively. According to the electron precise formulation RE³⁺Zn²⁺P³⁻O²⁻, these pnictide oxides are transparent in visible light. Susceptibility measurements on β‐CeZnPO, β‐PrZnPO, and GdZnPO reveal Curie‐Weiss paramagnetism with experimental magnetic moments of 2.31, 3.60, and 7.72 μ_B/RE atoms, respectively. β‐CeZnPO and β‐PrZnPO show antiferromagnetic order with Néel temperatures of 7.4 (Ce) and 2.2 (Pr) K. GdZnPO shows no magnetic ordering down to 2 K. Single crystal absorption spectra measured for REZnPO (RE = Y, La, Pr, Nd, Sm, Dy) in the NIR‐Vis region reveal unexpected variations for the optical band gap of these phosphide oxides. For RE = Pr, Nd, Sm, Dy, Ho f‐f electronic transitions with nicely resolved ligand‐field splittings are observed in the range 6000–20000 cm⁻¹. DFT band structure calculations show similarity between the valence bands of tetragonal and rhombohedral REZnPO as they possess mainly P‐3p character. In both cases, the conduction bands have mainly Zn‐4s character, but a significant contribution of RE‐5d occurs in rhombohedral REZnPO, which is responsible for a smaller optical band gap for the latter compounds. Variations of the energy gaps of tetragonal REZnPO can be explained by hybridization of Zn‐4s + RE‐5d + RE‐4f orbitals for the conduction band. DFT volume optimizations of α‐ and β‐PrZnPO show β‐PrZnPO to be more stable by 10.7 kJ mol⁻¹.     

Synthesis and Structure of the Intermetallic Lithium Stannides LiTSn4 (T = Ru,Rh, Ir) with Ordered PdGa5 Type Structure

LiRuSn₄, LiRhSn₄, and LiIrSn₄ were prepared by reaction of the elements in sealed tantalum ampoules at 1220 K. The tubes were subsequently annealed at 870 K for one week. The three stannides were investigated by X‐ray diffraction on powders and single crystals and the structures were refined from single crystal data: I4/mcm, a = 662.61(3), c = 1116.98(7) pm, wR2 = 0.0730, 283 F² values for LiRuSn₄, a = 658.73(5), c = 1136.4(1) pm, wR2 = 0.0532, 313 F² values for LiRhSn₄ and a = 657.34(5), c = 1130.4(1) pm, wR2 = 0.0343, 176 F² values for LiIrSn₄ with 11 variables for each refinement. LiRuSn₄, LiRhSn₄, and LiIrSn₄ crystallize with a ternary ordered variant of the PdGa₅ structure. The transition metal (T) atoms have a square antiprismatic tin environment and they form two‐dimensional [TSn₄] polyanions with relatively short Ru—Sn (279 pm), Rh—Sn (280 pm), and Ir—Sn (280 pm) distances. The lithium atoms connect the polyanionic [TSn₄] layers. They are located in square prismatic voids formed by tin atoms. The crystal chemistry and chemical bonding of these stannides is briefly discussed.     

Rare Earth-Rich Indides <Emphasis Type="Italic">RE</Emphasis><Subscript>5</Subscript>Pt<Subscript>2</Subscript>In<Subscript>4</Subscript> (<Emphasis Type="Italic">RE</Emphasis> = Sc,Y, La–Nd,Sm, Gd–Tm,Lu)

Summary. The isotypic indides RE ₅Pt₂In₄ (RE = Sc, Y, La–Nd, Sm, Gd–Tm, Lu) were synthesized by arc-melting of the elements and subsequent annealing. They were investigated via X-ray powder diffraction. Small single crystals of Gd₅Pt₂In₄ were grown via slow cooling and the structure was refined from X-ray single crystal diffractometer data: Pbam, a = 1819.2(9), b = 803.2(3), c = 367.6(2) pm, wR ² = 0.089, 893 F ² values and 36 parameters. The structure is an intergrowth variant of distorted trigonal and square prismatic slabs of compositions GdPt and GdIn. Together the platinum and indium atoms build up one-dimensional [Pt₂In₄] networks (292–333 pm Pt–In and 328–368 pm In–In) in an AA stacking sequence along the c axis. The gadolinium atoms fill distorted square and pentagonal prismatic cages between these networks with strong bonding to the platinum atoms.     

Rare earth-nickel-indides Dy5Ni2In4 and RE4Ni11In20 (RE=Gd, Tb, Dy)

The new rare earth metal (RE)-nickel-indides Dy₅Ni₂In₄ and RE₄Ni₁₁In₂₀ (RE=Gd, Tb, Dy) were synthesized from the elements by arc-melting. Well-shaped single crystals were obtained by special annealing sequences. The four indides were investigated by X-ray diffraction on powders and single crystals: Lu₅Ni₂In₄ type, Pbam, Z=2, a=1784.2(8), b=787.7(3), c=359.9(1) pm, wR₂=0.0458, 891 F² values, 36 variables for Dy₅Ni₂In₄, U₄Ni₁₁Ga₂₀ type, C2/m, a=2254.0(9), b=433.8(3), c=1658.5(8) pm, β=124.59(2)°, wR₂=0.0794, 2154 F² values, 108 variables for Gd₄Ni₁₁In₂₀, a=2249.9(8), b=432.2(1), c=1657.9(5) pm, β=124.59(2)°, wR₂=0.0417, 2147 F² values, 108 variables for Tb₄Ni₁₁In₂₀, and a=2252.2(5), b=430.6(1), c=1659.7(5) pm, β=124.58(2)°, wR₂=0.0550, 2003 F² values, 109 variables for Dy₄Ni_10.80In_20.20. The 2d site in the dysprosium compound shows mixed Ni/In occupancy. Most nickel atoms in both series of compounds exhibit trigonal prismatic coordination by indium and rare earth atoms. Additionally, in the RE₄Ni₁₁In₂₀ compounds one observes one-dimensional nickel clusters (259 pm Ni₁-Ni₆ in Dy₄Ni_10.80In_20.20) that are embedded in an indium matrix. While only one short In₁-In₂ contact at 324 pm is observed in Dy₅Ni₂In₄, the more indium-rich Dy₄Ni_10.80In_20.20 structure exhibits a broader range in In-In interactions (291-364 pm). Together the nickel and indium atoms build up polyanionic networks, a two-dimensional one in Dy₅Ni₂In₄ and a complex three-dimensional network in Dy₄Ni_10.80In_20.20. These features have a clear consequence on the dysprosium coordination, i.e. a variety of short Dy-Dy contacts (338-379 pm) in Dy₅Ni₂In₄, while the dysprosium atoms are well separated (430 pm shortest Dy-Dy distance) within the distorted hexagonal channels of the [Ni_10.80In_20.20] polyanion of Dy₄Ni_10.80In_20.20. The crystal chemistry of both structure types is comparatively discussed.     

Orthorhombic HP‐REOF (RE = Pr,Nd, Sm – Gd) – High‐Pressure Syntheses and Single‐Crystal Structures (RE = Nd,Sm, Eu)

High‐pressure modifications of the rare earth oxide fluorides REOF (RE = Pr, Nd, Sm – Gd) were successfully synthesized under conditions of 11 GPa and 1200 °C applying the multianvil high‐pressure/high‐temperature technique. Single crystals of HP‐REOF (RE = Nd, Sm, Eu) were obtained making it possible to analyze the products by means of single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. The compounds HP‐REOF (RE = Nd, Sm, Eu) crystallize in the orthorhombic α‐PbCl₂‐type structure (space group Pnma, No. 62, Z = 4) with the parameters a = 632.45(3), b = 381.87(2), c = 699.21(3) pm, V = 0.16887(2) nm³, R₁ = 0.0156, and wR₂ = 0.0382 for HP‐NdOF, a = 624.38(3), b = 376.87(2), c = 689.53(4) pm, V = 0.16225(2) nm³, R₁ = 0.0141, and wR₂ = 0.0323 for HP‐SmOF, and a = 620.02(4), b = 374.24(3), c = 686.82(5) pm, V = 0.15937(2) nm³, R₁ = 0.0177, and wR₂ = 0.0288 for HP‐EuOF. Calculations of the bond valence sums clearly showed that the oxygen atoms occupy the tetrahedrally coordinated position, whereas the fluorine atoms are fivefold coordinated in form of distorted square‐pyramids. The crystal structures and properties of HP‐REOF (RE = Nd, Sm, Eu) are discussed and compared to the isostructural phases and the normal‐pressure modifications of REOF (RE = Nd, Sm, Eu). Furthermore, results of investigations by EDX and Raman measurements including quantum mechanical calculations are presented.     

Syntheses and Structures of RE10Ni9+xIn20 (RE = Tb,Dy) and YbNiIn2

The ternary indides RE₁₀Ni_9+xIn₂₀ (RE = Tb, Dy) were synthesized from the elements by arc‐melting under argon and subsequent annealing. YbNiIn₂ was prepared in a sealed tantalum tube in a water‐cooled sample chamber of a high‐frequency furnace. X‐ray powder and single crystal data revealed isotypism with the tetragonal Ho₁₀Ni₉In₂₀ type structure, space group P4/nmm for the RE₁₀Ni_9+xIn₂₀ compounds: a = 1337.0(2), c = 909.5(2) pm, wR2 = 0.0527, 1795 F² values, 65 variables for RE = Tb, and a = 1333.63(7), c = 907.2(1) pm, wR2 = 0.0590, 1346 F² values, 65 variables for RE = Dy. Both indides show an additional nickel site (Ni4) with partial nickel occupancy leading to the refined compositions Tb₁₀Ni_9.34(2)In₂₀ and Dy₁₀Ni_9.32(2)In₂₀. YbNiIn₂ adopts the orthorhombic MgCuAl₂‐type structure: Cmcm, a = 430.67(9), b = 1033.0(2), c = 758.1(1) pm, wR2 = 0.0262, 424 F² values and 16 variable parameters. The crystal chemistry of the RE₁₀Ni_9+xIn₂₀ and RENiIn₂ compounds is briefly discussed.     

Rare earth-rich cadmium compounds RE 4 TCd (T = Co, Ru, and Rh) with Gd4RhIn type structure

The rare earth-rich cadmium compounds RE ₄ TCd (RE = Y, La–Nd, Sm, and Gd–Tm, Lu; T = Co, Ru, and Rh) were prepared from the elements in sealed tantalum ampoules in an induction furnace. All samples were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction. The structures of Y₄RuCd (a = 1362.5(1) pm), La₄RuCd (a = 1415.9(1) pm), Gd₄RuCd (a = 1368.8(2) pm), La₄CoCd (a = 1417.9(4) pm), Gd₄CoCd (a = 1356.1(1) pm), and Gd₄RhCd (a = 1368.7(1) pm) were refined from single crystal X-ray diffractometer data. The RE ₄ TCd compounds crystallize with the cubic Gd₄RhIn type structure, space group F ${\bar 4}The rare earth-rich cadmium compounds RE ₄ TCd (RE = Y, La–Nd, Sm, and Gd–Tm, Lu; T = Co, Ru, and Rh) were prepared from the elements in sealed tantalum ampoules in an induction furnace. All samples were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction. The structures of Y₄RuCd (a = 1362.5(1) pm), La₄RuCd (a = 1415.9(1) pm), Gd₄RuCd (a = 1368.8(2) pm), La₄CoCd (a = 1417.9(4) pm), Gd₄CoCd (a = 1356.1(1) pm), and Gd₄RhCd (a = 1368.7(1) pm) were refined from single crystal X-ray diffractometer data. The RE ₄ TCd compounds crystallize with the cubic Gd₄RhIn type structure, space group F 3m. The transition metal atoms have tricapped trigonal prismatic rare earth coordination. The trigonal prisms are condensed via common edges, forming a rigid three-dimensional network with adamantane symmetry. Voids in these networks are filled by Cd₄ tetrahedra (304 pm Cd–Cd in Gd₄CoCd) and polyhedra of the RE1 atoms. The crystal chemical peculiarities are briefly discussed. Correspondence: Rainer P?ttgen, Institut für Anorganische und Analytische Chemie, Westf?lische Wilhelms-Universit?t Münster, Correnstrasse 30, 48149 Münster, Germany.     

Quaternary indides LaTIn3Mg (T = Rh and Ir) and CeIrIn3Mg with LaCoAl4 type structure

The quaternary indides LaTIn₃Mg (T = Rh and Ir) and CeIrIn₃Mg were prepared from the elements in sealed tantalum ampoules in an induction furnace. The samples were characterized by X-ray powder and single crystal data: LaCoAl₄ type, Pmma, Z = 2, a = 830.5(1), b = 436.1(1), c = 745.1(1) pm, wR2 = 0.038, 467 F ² values for LaRhIn_3.075Mg_0.925, a = 832.9(1), b = 436.5(1), c = 746.9(1) pm, wR2 = 0.077, 471 F ² values for LaIrIn_3.091Mg_0.909, and a = 832.2(1), b = 434.1(1), c = 743.9(1) pm, wR2 = 0.066, 465 F ² values for CeIrIn_3.07Mg_0.93 with 25 variables for each refinement. The transition metal, indium, and magnesium atoms build up three-dimensional [TIn₃Mg] networks which leave pentagonal prismatic voids for the lanthanum and cerium atoms. The transition metal atoms have tricapped trigonal prismatic coordination and the magnesium atoms fill distorted square prisms. All three crystals revealed a small degree of Mg/In mixing on the latter site.