Abstract

The BIZNVOX solid solution domain, stable at room temperature, has been determined. α-, β- and γ-type compounds can be stabilized depending on the x and y values of the general Bi₂(V_{1 − x − y}Zn_xBi_y)O_z formula. The α- and β-type phases exhibit incommensurate modulations studied by X-ray powder diffraction. The lock-in of their wave vectors on the three-fold and two-fold superstructures of the undoped α- and β-Bi₄V₂O₁₁, respectively, is clearly evidenced. SAEDand HREM observations reveal very complex disorder correlated with the attractive oxide ion conductivity of these materials.