Solidsalt

Solidsalt is a term used in solid-state chemistry to denote a class of crystalline ionic solids that maintain a stable lattice at ambient conditions. It is not a single compound but a family of salts formed from various cations and anions that organize into three-dimensional structures.

Structure and properties: Solidsalts feature densely packed ionic lattices with high lattice energy. They typically have high melting points and low solubility in water, and exhibit mechanical stiffness and chemical inertness. In the solid state, they usually act as insulators with respect to electrical conductivity; their ionic conductivity, if present, occurs primarily when defects or dopants enable ion diffusion or when heated.

Synthesis and classification: Synthesis involves crystallization from aqueous or molten solutions, solid-state reaction, or solvothermal methods. Subclasses are defined by the type of ions (alkali, alkaline earth, transition metals, halides, oxoanions, etc.) and by lattice structure (rock-salt, perovskite-like, spinel-like), but the term "solidsalt" is used as a descriptive label rather than a precise stoichiometry.

Applications and research status: Research interest focuses on solid electrolytes for batteries, corrosion-resistant coatings, and ionic conductors in sensors. In practice, real materials referred to as solidsalts are often better described by established classes (e.g., ceramic electrolytes) rather than by the generic term. The concept serves as a placeholder in discussions of solid-state ionic materials.