Homogeneity range of ɛ-phase Zn4 Sb3

The ɛ-phase of Zn4 Sb3 compound has been examined by the powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) and electron-probe micro analysis (EPMA) on three ingots prepared, respectively, by gradient freeze (GF), Bridgman (BR) and solid-state synthesis (SSS) with different starting compositions. It is found that the homogeneity range of the ɛ-phase is narrow within 0.20 at.% Zn irrespective of different preparation methods and starting compositions.