The phase equilibria in the Sb-Sn system - Part I: Literature review

Existing literature data already show that an Sb2Sn3 compound with ordered NaCl structure cannot exist due to the diverging stoichiometry. Direct experimental evidence in favor of the existence of this compound is scarce, but thermal effects that might correspond to its peritectic formation were frequently and consistently observed. Newer results point towards the existence of a compound Sb3Sn4 instead of Sb2Sn3, but no crystal structure has been reported so far. Claims for further ordered phases lack the support through conclusive X-ray data. The understanding of the Sb-Sn system therefore essentially depends on understanding the complex crystallography of its intermetallic phases.