| Abstract Scope |
The discovery of new crystalline materials is of utmost importance in solid state and materials chemistry. However, synthesizing new compounds is often a serendipitous process requiring tedious optimization of synthesis conditions. Materials discovery can be accelerated by the development of synthesis and theoretical methods and in-situ characterization techniques allowing for the rapid “screening” of multicomponent systems. However, the sluggish kinetics of solid-state reactions entails the necessity of high temperatures and extended annealing, often leading to the stabilization of the thermodynamically stable products. Thus, new synthetic methods using unconventional reactive precursors must be developed to overcome traditional solid-state synthesis limitations. We have performed phase screening using reactive hydride precursors and discovered 8 new compounds in the Na-Zn-Sb and K-Zn-Sb ternary systems. These antimonides have a potential application as thermoelectric materials, e.g., materials converting heat into electricity and vise versa. Crystal chemistry and the physical properties of novel compounds will be discussed. |