Hard-soft chemistry in new materials synthesis

Our major research goals include synthesis and study of several classes of materials under high pressure conditions, utilizing techniques which might be termed `hard chemistry' (to distinguish these from the methods of `soft chemistry', and those of traditional synthetic chemistry). However, several of our syntheses require preparation of suitable precursors for subsequent high pressure treatment. The techniques of `soft chemistry' are often ideally suited to these precursor syntheses, providing an interesting marriage between the two synthesis philosophies. We present examples of this from our recent work on GeSiC tetrahedral alloys, and synthesis of ABS <sub>3</sub> sulphide phases. In addition, we are beginning to explore some potentially exciting directions for future research, in which `hard' chemistry treatments should result in precursor materials for subsequent soft chemistry investigations.