LiBSi2: a tetrahedral semiconductor framework from boron and silicon atoms bearing lithium atoms in the channels

Angew Chem Int Ed Engl. 2013 Jun 3;52(23):5978-82. doi: 10.1002/anie.201301540. Epub 2013 Apr 22.

Abstract

Silicon swallows up boron: The novel open tetrahedral framework structure (OTF) of the Zintl phase LiBSi2 was made by applying high pressure to a mixture of LiB and elemental silicon. The compound represents a new topology in the B-Si net (called tum), which hosts Li atoms in the channels (see picture). LiBSi2 is the first example where B and Si atoms form an ordered common framework structure with B engaged exclusively in heteronuclear B-Si contacts.