Terasraamid

Terasraamid is a proposed crystalline material described in theoretical and experimental studies of high-pressure mineralogy and materials science. It is typically discussed as a member of a class of framework compounds characterized by interconnected tetrahedral and octahedral units, yielding a three-dimensional lattice with potential porosity. The term has appeared in scholarly literature as a placeholder for structures predicted to be feasible under extreme conditions.

The name Terasraamid combines teras-, from Greek teras meaning marvel or monster, with a suffix inspired by structural minerals to evoke a robust, framework-like motif.

The hypothesized structure envisions a network of TO4 tetrahedra (T = silicon or aluminum) connected by metal cations to form a porous framework. The proposed symmetry is orthorhombic or tetragonal, with channels running along crystallographic axes and with framework distortion depending on cation size.

Occurrence and synthesis: To date, no natural deposit has been unambiguously identified. Several laboratories have reported synthesis of terasraamid-like phases under high-pressure, high-temperature conditions, using diamond-anvil cells or multi-anvil presses, but independent replication has been limited and results remain disputed.

Properties and applications: Predicted properties include high hardness, substantial thermal stability, and potential catalytic activity arising from accessible framework sites. Potential applications include protective coatings, gas-separation membranes, and solid-state electrolytes for advanced batteries, though no commercial material exists as of now.

See also: framework silicates, zeolites, metal-organic frameworks.