文摘
The structure of (NHb>4b>)b>2b>Geb>7b>Ob>15b> recently described as being a microporous material containing rings, in which GeOb>6b> octahedra coexist with GeOb>4b> tetrahedra, is re-examined in the light of the Extended Zintl–Klemm Concept as applied to cations in oxides. The Ge[6] atoms together with the NHb>4b>+ groups act as true cations, transferring their 6 valence electrons to the acceptor Geb>2b>Ob>5b> moiety, so converting it into the [Geb>6b>Ob>15b>]6−[triple-bond]3(Ψ-Asb>2b>Ob>5b>) ion (where Ψ refers to a pseudo-lattice) and yielding threefold connectivity. The tetrahedral Ge network shows similarities with the Sbb>2b>Ob>3b> analogue. At the same time, the Ge[6] atoms are connected to other Ge[4] atoms forming blocks that are part of a rutile-type GeOb>2b> structure. Such an analysis shows that both substructures (the Zintl polyanion and the rutile fragments) must be satisfied simultaneously as has already been illustrated in previous articles which considered stuffed-bixbyites [Vegas et al. (2009). Acta Cryst. B<b>65b>, 11–21] as well as the compound FeLiPOb>4b> [Vegas (2011). Struct. Bond.<b>138b>, 67–91]. This new insight conforms well to previous (differential thermal analysis) DTA–TGA (thermogravimetric analysis) experiments [Cascales et al. (1998). Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. <b>37b>, 129–131], which show endothermic loss of NHb>3b> and Hb>2b>O to give rise to the metastable structure Geb>7b>Ob>14b>, which further collapses to the rutile-type GeOb>2b> structure. We analyze the stability change in terms of ionic strength, I, and so provide a means of rationalizing the driving force behind this concept capable of explaining the atomic arrangements found in these types of crystal structures. Although the concept was formulated in 2003, later than the publication of the germanate structure, it was not used or else ignored by colleagues who solved this crystal structure.