Zirconium difluoride

Abstract

Zirconium difluoride was prepared by the action of atomic hydrogen on thin layers of zirconium tetrafluoride, at a temperature of approximately 350°. The compound is orthorhombic in structure. It is black, tends to take up oxygen in air, and ignites readily and burns to form zirconium dioxide. Disproportionation occurs at 800° with the formation of ZrF₄ and zirconium, and other chemical properties are similar to those of the known dihalides of Group IVA.