Synthesis and characterization of a new layered magnesium zinc phosphate hydrate

A new layered magnesium zinc phosphate hydrate, MgZn(HPO4)2·H2O, with a zinc phosphate framework isostructural with the one of Na2Zn(HPO4)2·4H2O, was prepared by the direct ambient pressure and temperature reaction between zinc 2,4-pentanedionate, phosphoric acid and hexahydrated magnesium chloride. The as-prepared sample is monoclinic (a = 8.780(7) Å, b = 13.240(7) Å, c = 11.123(0) Å and β = 116.21(2)°). The prepared solid undergoes two thermal transformations when it is heated from 110 to 600 °C. The first transformation is due to the release of intercalated water molecules and the second one is due to the HPO42− → P2O74− transition.