From Molecules to Solids: Novel Nitrido Compounds

Abstract

The combination of the elements phosphorus and nitrogen in molecular compounds results in the versatile chemistry of the phosphazenes. Pure inorganic solid state P–N-compounds are accessible, starting from simple molecular phosphazenes. According to the isosteric behaviour of Si/O and P/N these phosphorus nitrides show distinct structural analogies to the silicate class of compounds. Potential applications of the new compounds as ceramic materials, ionic conductors, sintering additives, or pigments seem to be possible. Synthetic strategies like precursor routes or molecular preorganization are promising approaches, starting from molecules and leading to solid state P–N-compounds.

Key Words:

• phosphazenes
• phosphorus nitrides
• nitrido zeolites
• precursor compounds
• molecular preorganization