Structure model and synthesis of NdCl3-FeCl3-graphite intercalation compounds

The distribution of the elements and microstructure of NdCI3-FeCI3-graphite intercalation compounds (GlCs) were shown by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The results show that Nd element intercalates into graphite, forming NdCI3-FeCI3-GICs, and the distribution of Nd and Fe is nearly even. On the basis of the data, a structure model for RECI3-GICs was founded, and the characteristic layer distance and the index of interval energy were calculated. The calculated results agree with experimental ones, and the relative errors are ±2%. Thus it can be seen that the (111) face is optimal direction for intercalation reaction of TbCI3—LuCI3, and the (001) face is that for LaCI3—GdCI3, because of the lowest interval energy.