Where zeolites and oxides merge: semi-condensed tetrahedral frameworks

The synthesis of new inorganic materials constructed with extended lattices has taken place mainly in two areas, complex oxides and porous framework structures. In the former case the drive has been towards controlling electronic and magnetic properties while in the latter domain porosity and the ability to enclathrate small organic or inorganic units has been paramount. Semi-condensed framework materials, whose compositions and structures place them at the borderline of these two classes, are described in this article, such compound types include the sodalite, cancrinite, analcime, zeloites ABW and JEW and scapolite structures. In each case recent chemistry and developments are described particularly with respect to advances made at The University of Southampton. The potential for merging the properties and structures of these two classes of compounds are also discussed.