On the formation of isolated Se8 rings in zeolites

Even at sub-stoichiometric Se loading into the supercages of Sr–Y zeolite, significant concentrations of Se8 rings form in addition to the open chain structures. This material provides an excellent medium for the investigation of the vibrational and UV/VIS absorption spectra of isolated Se8 molecules under well-defined conditions. The potential of these nanostructured composite materials has not yet been fully exploited, and a complete understanding of the molecular structure of such encapsulates is prerequisite for tailoring new materials for optoelectronic purposes.