Synthesis, structure characterization and optical properties of a new lead cadmium borate

A new ternary borate, Pb3Cd3(BO3)4, has been synthesized by solid-state reaction at 530 °C. The compound crystallizes in the hexagonal space group P63/m with a = 9.946(4), c = 7.003(5) Å, and Z = 2. The crystal structure consists of one-dimensional (1D) long [PbO5]∞ tubes. The tubes are further connected by BO3 to generate a three-dimensional framework with the six-member tunnels along the c axis, where Cd atoms locate and the CdO6 octahedra form 1D chain. The IR spectrum confirms the presence of BO3 unit. The UV–Vis–IR diffuse reflectance spectrum exhibits a band gap of about 3.56 eV. The DSC analysis suggests that Pb3Cd3(BO3)4 is an incongruent melting compound.

Graphical abstractA new lead cadmium borate Pb3Cd3B5O10 have been synthesized, its structure exhibits a three-dimensional network composed of PbO5, CdO6 polyhedra and BO3 groups. The PbO5 polyhedra form an interesting tubular structure by edge sharing and the tubes were connected by BO3 groups to form a three-dimensional framework with Cd atoms in the space.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Pb3Cd3(BO3)4 is the first borate discovered in the ternary PbO–CdO–B2O3 system. ► The crystal structure contains an interesting PbO5 polyhedra tube. ► The material exhibits a band gap of about 3.56 eV.