carbidearsenide

Carbidearsenide is a term used in solid‑state chemistry and materials science to describe compounds that incorporate both carbide (C) and arsenide (As) units within their crystal structure, typically in combination with metal cations. Such materials lie at the intersection of transition-metal carbides, arsenides, and carbide–arsenide intermetallics and are explored for their diverse bonding and properties.

Structure and bonding: The carbon and arsenic atoms may occupy distinct sublattices or form mixed carbide–arsenide networks. Metal atoms supply charge balance and often participate in covalent, metallic, or ionic bonds with C and As. The resulting structures can be layered, resembling other carbides, or three-dimensional frameworks.

Synthesis and characterization: Carbidearsenides are usually prepared by high-temperature solid-state reactions of metal precursors with carbon and arsenic sources under inert atmospheres. Alternative routes include arc-melting, powder synthesis followed by annealing, or chemical vapor transport for single-crystal growth. Characterization relies on X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, and spectroscopic methods to determine composition and structure.

Properties and applications: They often exhibit high melting points and hardness, with electrical conductivity ranging from metallic to semiconducting depending on composition. Some compounds show interesting optical or magnetic properties; research interest includes thermoelectric, electronic, and coating applications. However, many carbidearsenides are niche materials with limited large-scale use.

Safety: Arsenic compounds are toxic; proper handling, containment, and disposal are required, following institutional and regulatory guidelines.