Lithium antimonide


Lithium antimonide is a binary inorganic compound of lithium and antimony with the molecular formula.

Synthesis

The compound is synthesized by fusing pure elements at 500 °С and high pressure:
When a mixture of lithium and antimony is heated, the elements react violently, releasing intense heat and flame. Other reactions are also known.

Physical properties

The compound forms dark grey cystals of the cubic crystal system, space group Pm3''m.
At a temperature of 650 °C, a transition to the hexagonal phase occurs, spatial group P''63/mmc.

Chemical properties

Lithium antimonide reacts with water, producing stibine and lithium hydroxide:

Uses

The compound is recognized as a material for lithium batteries and thermoelectric applications.