Novel synthesis of the layer structured β-ZrNCl by the direct reactions of zirconium metal or zirconium hydride with ammonium chloride

Abstract

The layer structured β-ZrNCl can be synthesized in high yield by the direct reaction of zirconium metal or zirconium hydride with the vapor of ammonium chloride at temperatures ranging from 550 to 700°C. The as-prepared sample was contaminated with a small amount of oxide, and purified by chemical transport in a vacuum-sealed tube with a temperature gradient from 750 to 850°C. The sample transported to the higher temperature zone is highly crystalline and the structure is characterized by a rhombohedral stacking sequence of ZrNCl layers rather than a hexagonal random stacking sequence found in the as-prepared samples.