Non-oxide and Heteroanionic Materials

Much of traditional solid state chemistry invokes changes in the structures and properties of solids via addition or substitution of cations. In the vast majority of cases, the anion remains a constant, and due in part to the ubiquity of oxygen, that anion is oxide. This book considers the role and importance of nitrides, pnictides, chalcogenides, carbides and halides, among others, in redefining modern solid state materials chemistry. The true flexibility of the anion is explored in a summary of heteroanionic (“mixed anion”) materials in which two or more anions can be incorporated in crystalline structures, either “ab initio” or via doping and substitution. The concept of “pseudo oxides” (where compounds with multiple anions isoelectronic to O2- can be designed) is explored. Throughout, the onus of the volume is on linking fundamental solid state chemistry with properties, performance and applications to illustrate how useful - and sometimes unique - materials can be designed “beyond oxides”. Written in an accessible style, Non-Oxide and Heteroanionic Materials provides a valuable resource for advanced undergraduates and postgraduates across solid state chemistry, catalysis and materials science, as well as researchers looking for an introduction to the subject.