Sc2Si2O7

Sc2Si2O7 is a chemical compound composed of scandium, silicon, and oxygen. It is a silicate with the disilicate (Si2O7) structural unit, and two Sc3+ ions balance the oxide framework.

Crystal structure: The Si2O7 unit consists of two SiO4 tetrahedra that share a corner, forming a disilicate group. These units are linked by scandium–oxygen polyhedra to create a three-dimensional oxide network. The material can exist in multiple polymorphs, with different reported space groups, depending on temperature and synthesis conditions.

Synthesis and occurrence: Sc2Si2O7 is typically prepared by high-temperature solid-state synthesis from scandium oxide (Sc2O3) and silica (SiO2). It is a rare phase in natural settings and is primarily studied in laboratory and materials-research contexts rather than as a common mineral.

Properties: It is a refractory oxide with a high melting point and good thermal stability. The compound behaves as an electrical insulator and forms chemically stable ceramics at elevated temperatures, contributing to its interest in high-temperature materials research.

Applications and research: Due to its silicate framework and scandium content, Sc2Si2O7 is of interest in studies of disilicate chemistry and as a potential component in high-temperature ceramics and dielectric materials. Research typically focuses on phase relations, crystal structure, synthesis routes, and the properties of related disilicate systems.