Superstructure formation in the solid solution Sc₃Pt_3−xIn₃ (x = 0–0.93)

Abstract The equiatomic indide ScPtIn (ZrNiAl type, space group P 6 ‾ $‾{6}$ 2m) shows an extended solid solution Sc3Pt3–xIn3. Several samples of the Sc3Pt3–xIn3 series were synthesized from the elements by arc-melting and subsequent annealing, or directly in a high frequency furnace. The lowest platinum content was observed for Sc3Pt2.072(3)In3. All samples were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction and their lattice parameters and several single crystals were studied on the basis of precise single crystal X-ray diffractometer data. The correct platinum occupancy parameters were refined from the diffraction data. Decreasing platinum content leads to decreasing a and c lattice parameters. Satellite reflections were observed for the Sc3Pt3–xIn3 crystals with x = 0.31–0.83. These satellite reflections could be described with a modulation vector ( 1 3 , 1 3 , γ ) $\left(\frac{1}{3},\frac{1}{3},\gamma \right)$ ( γ = 1 2 $\gamma =\frac{1}{2}$ c* for all crystals) and are compatible with trigonal symmetry. The interplay of platinum filled vs. empty In6 trigonal prisms is discussed for an approximant structure with space group P3m1.