Gas sorption in functional ionic materials possessing interstitial voids: insight by in situ X-ray diffraction in (Me4N)2SnX6

The present proposal aims at understanding gas sorption in interstitial voids within cristalline (Me4N)2SnX6 (X = halogen) derivatives. Despite the non-interconnected nature of these voids, our preliminary studies by lab in situ X-ray diffraction have shown that they are able to interact with gas molecules, leading to structural changes. Here we aim at studying the interaction of (Me4N)2SnX6 with Ar, Xe, Kr, CO2 and CH4 gas, to provide a clear view on the implicated mechanisms by means of in situ X-ray powder diffraction, enabling precise localisation of adsorption sites and sorbent-adsorbate interactions in these materials. This will ultimately enhance our understanding of the gas sorption in ionic materials possessing interstitial voids.