Structure and elementary properties of the new Ir hollandite Rb{sub 0.17}IrO{sub 2}

We report the synthesis and structural characterization of the new Ir holladite, Rb{sub 0.17}IrO{sub 2}. Rb{sub 0.17}IrO{sub 2} crystallizes in the tetragonal hollandite structure. In contrast to the previously reported monoclinic Ir hollandite K{sub 0.25}IrO{sub 2}, we do not observe a difference in Ir–O bond lengths in Rb{sub 0.17}IrO{sub 2} and thus find Ir in an average oxidation state of + 3.83. We also report and compare the electronic and magnetic properties of Rb{sub 0.17}IrO{sub 2} and K{sub 0.25}IrO{sub 2}, finding that they are both metallic and Pauli paramagnets further supporting that the electrons are delocalized in the Ir 5d states. - Graphical abstract: Crystal structure of Rb{sub 0.17}IrO{sub 2} (right), and the SEM image of Rb{sub 0.17}IrO{sub 2}, showing the growth of thin needles (left). Display Omitted - Highlights: • New iridium hollandite. • Naturally grows in very thin wires. • Elementary physical properties of Ir holladites reported for the first time metallic conductor and paramagnetic.