Published online by Cambridge University Press: 25 February 2011
Solutions of Sn(OR)4 and R'Sn(OR)3 with different amounts of alkali and alkaline earth metal alkoxides, MI(OR) and MII(OR)2 respectively, have been prepared. Slow evaporation of the solvent resulted in the crystallization of mixed metal alkoxide compounds. Solid state structures have been determined for two examples: K3H[Sn(O/Pr)6]2 and Na2[iPrSn(OiPr)5]·5iPrOH. Solutions as well as solids have been hydrolyzed by moisture. The thermal behaviour of the resulting amorphous powders was investigated by TG, DTA and XRD up to 1000°C in argon atmosphere. The structural evolution during the solid state step mainly depends on the nature and amount of the mono- and bivalent cations. The different influence of both parameters is described.