Crystallization of New Inorganic Fluoride Nanomaterials at Soft Chemistry Conditions and Their Application Prospects

The formation and growth specifics of metal fluoride MF₂ (where M = Ca, Sr, or Pb) and MF₃ (where M = Sc, La, or Ln) crystals by reacting components of aqueous metal salt solutions with hydrogen fluoride gas at the planar solution–gas interface at room temperature are considered. Compounds with different crystal structures: PbF₂ (space groups Pnma and Fm \(\bar {3}\) m), ScF₃ (sp. gr. Pm \(\overline{3}\) m and P6/mmm), and LaF₃ (space group \(P\bar {3}c\) 1) were chosen as objects of study. The factors having a significant influence on the morphology, size, and ordering of the grown crystals have been identified. An opportunity to prepare 1D and 2D crystals has been shown for some compounds. Probable applications fields of nanomaterials based on the prepared compounds are analyzed. The conclusion is made about a potential of the interface technique for use in the design of new solid electrolytes, optically active materials, and functional coatings.