Network Solids

The following are examples of various types of networks solids. The key characteristic of each is that the structural units shown are bonded (covalently) to neighboring units forming a continuous network. Note that the classification of a material as a network solid requires some knowledge of the solid state structure of the compound. You will be expected to know the general classes of networks solids and not exact formulas.

Many of the models pictured here and a more complete description can be found at:

• The Making Matter Web Page
• The Zeolite Atlas Web Page

SiO₂ (quartz)

C (graphite)

C (diamond)

Silicates: materials that consist of linked SiO₂ units

• glasses: typically amorphous
• borosilicates: boron replaces some of the Si atoms
• phyllosilicate: Talc, Mg₃Si₄O₁₀(OH)₂

Zeolites: aluminosilicates that have porous structures with channels that other molecules/ions may enter.

• ZSM-5 : Na₄[Al_nSi_96-nO₁₉₂] ~ 16 H₂O
  • used in the cracking of hydrocarbons (breaking apart) for gasoline
  • view of the 5.3 x 5.6 angstrom channel
    
    
• Linde Type A: {Na₁₂[Al₁₂Si12O₄₈]}₈
  • a type of molecular sieve, able to absorb water and ions. Ion exchange for water softening
  • view of the 4.1 angstrom channel
    
    

Ceramics: for example high temperature superconductors, e.g. YBa₂Cu₃O₇

Clays: a layered aluminosilicate

• Montmorillonite
  

Minerals and Gems:

many of these are also made up of aluminum and/or silicon oxides with trace transition metal impurities or defects that impart their brilliant colors

• Corundem Al₂O₃ ("Ruby", "Sapphire" depending on the impurity)
  

many others......

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Created 02/02/99
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