Crystal structure of anhydrous bismuth iodate, Bi(IO 3 ) 3

Bismuth iodate was synthesized by precipitation from bismuth nitrate and iodic acid. The powder was dissolved in dilute nitric acid and single crystals were obtained by slow evaporation at 70°C. Bi(IO 3 ) 3 crystallizes in the monoclinic system, space group P 2 1 / n (N° 14), a = 8.8882(2) Å, b = 5.9445(2) Å, c = 15.2445(5) Å, β = 97.064(1) Å. BiO9 polyhedra are edge-connected forming chains parallel to the b axis; these chains are linked through (IO 3 ) groups forming layers parallel to (101). The 3D framework is designed by linking these layers through long I–O bonds. DSC analysis shows a remarkable thermal stability.