K2AuPS4, Tl2AuPS4, K2AuAsS4, and KAu5P2S8: Syntheses, Structures, and Properties of Quaternary Gold Thiophosphate and Thioarsenate Compounds

Abstract

The novel compounds K2AuPS4 (1), Tl2AuPS4 (2), K2AuAsS4 (3), and KAu5P2S8 (4) have been synthesized by direct reaction of the elements with a molten alkaline polythiophosphate(arsenate) flux at 550°C. The crystal structures of these compounds have been determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction techniques. 1, 2, and 3 crystallize in the monoclinic space group P21/m. The structures of 1, 2, and 3 consist of infinite, one-dimensional anionic chains running along the crystallographic b axis. The chains are separated by potassium or thallium ions. Neighbouring Au atoms are bridged by MS43− tetrahedra (M = P, As) in a trans orientation. Compound 4 crystallizes in the space group P21/c. The anionic chains of 4 are built up from linear AuS2 dumbbell units and PS43− tetrahedra. The chains extend along the [110] and [110] direction and are separated by charge balancing K+ cations. Each of the compounds was investigated by differential thermal analysis, FT-IR, and solid-state UV/Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy.