Synthetic approaches to borocarbonitrides, BCxN (x=1-2)

In order to synthesize borocarbonitrides of the general formula BCxN where x varies between 1 and 2, we have carried out high-temperature gas phase reaction of BBr3 with a mixture of ethylene and ammonia. The composition of the product was close to BC1.6N as shown by x-ray photon spectroscopy (XPS) and electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS). The products were further characterized by infra-red, Raman and other spectroscopic techniques. The borocarbonitrides obtained from the gas phase reaction have low surface areas, in contrast to those of similar compositions prepared by the urea method. First principles calculations show that the most stable structures of the compositions BCN and BC2N contain BN-rich and carbon-rich domains where BN3 and NB3 units are present. - Graphical abstract: Vapor phase synthesis of BCxN (x=1-2) by the reaction of BBr3, ethylene and ammonia leads to the formation of pan-like structure. Highlights: → We have carried out vapor phase reaction of BBr3, ethylene and ammonia to synthesize BCxN (x=1-2). → HRTEM and AFM show the formation of pan-like structures with the central region formed of single layer of BCxN. → Borocarbonitrides formed by vapor phase synthesis show limited adsorption properties as compared to the urea route. → First principles calculations show that the most stable structure of the compositions BCN and BC2N contain BN-rich and carbon-rich domains where BN3 and NB3 units are present.