Synthesis and Characterization of Novel Metal Oxides 

 

Dr. Xiqu Wang Kasia Derrickson Marlon Conato
Lumei Liu Paola Gil-Mateo Sang Ho Lee

The synthesis and properties of transition metal oxide systems with layered or framework structures is the focus of this research area. We study the synthesis of new compounds with asymmetric layer structures , open framework structures that can absorb molecules and new synthetic techniques including electrocrystallization under hydrothermal conditions.

Compounds with asymmetric layer structures are inherently non centrosymmetric and can show nonlinear optical properties. Systems we have investigated include layered molybdenum and tungsten oxides based on the hexagonal tungsten oxide framework. These phases have the composition A2(MO3)3XO3 where A=alkali metal, M=Mo, W and X=Se or CH3P- and show nonlinear optical properties. We are investigating synthesis of new phases with suitable cromophores and the preparation of single crystal and thin films for optical purposes.

We use hydrothermal synthesis and coordination chemistry to construct new open framework structures. Recent examples include assembly of cluster anions such as [V2P2BO10]618- into framework structures, the synthesis of Ni(CN)4(Ph3Sn)2.xS, a coordination system with a very low density framework and single crystal growth and structure refinement of the titano-silicate ETS10. Hydrothermal electrocrystallization and related approach that directly uses dissolution of metals have led to the synthesis of a number of new phases including a new family of Niobium phosphates.

Our current emphasis is on the synthesis of open framework and microporous Vanadium, Niobium and Uranium metal silicates.

Research Supported by: National Science Foundation, Robert A. Welch Foundation.

 

                                         

 

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