Preparation and crystal structure of ANi(10)P(3) (A : Zn, Ga, Sn, Sb)

Four compounds ANi(10)P(3) (A: Zn, Ga, Sn, Sb) were prepared by heating mix tures of the elements and investigated by means of X-ray methods. Single cr ystal structure determinations of ZnNi10P3 (a = 7.665(1), c = 9.360(1) Angs trom) and SnNi10P3 (a = 7.674(1), c = 9.621(1) Angstrom) respectively showe d, that they are isotypic and crystallize in a new structure (P (3) over ba r m1; Z = 3). This type is characterized by 3(20) and 3(24) cages of Ni ato ms (Frank Kasper polyhedra), which are connected with each other. A atoms a re located in the centres of these polyhedra and have no direct bonds to th e P atoms.