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Beyond inertness: unconventional chemical bonding and stabilization strategies of argon

Jianlin Ren, Bing Li, Yan Guo, Xiangyu Liu   

  1. College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Ningxia University/National Key Laboratory of Coal Efficient Utilization and Green Chemical Technology, Yinchuan 750021, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, China
  • Received:2026-01-22 Accepted:2026-04-03
  • Contact: Jianlin Ren E-mail:rjl@nxu.edu.cn

Abstract: Argon, which was officially discovered in 1894, has seen its long-standing classification as "inert" progressively challenged by the successful synthesis of diverse compounds. This review comprehensively examines recent advances in argon chemistry. We first elucidate its latent bonding capability through atomic parameters, specifically ionization energy and polarizability. Subsequently, we systematically survey developments across multiple domains: from gaseous ions in interstellar space to various clathrates and endohedral complexes, then to compounds formed under extreme high-pressure conditions with metals or other noble gases, and finally to coordination-type molecules (e.g., HArF), encompassing their synthesis and characterization. These advancements demonstrate that argon's chemical fixation can be achieved through extreme conditions, highly reactive partners, and theoretical design, with bonding mechanisms ranging from weak interactions to charge transfer and even partial covalent bonding. This article aims to outline the evolution of argon chemistry and provide a foundation for future research.

Key words: Argon, Noble gas, Chemical bonding, High-pressure chemistry, Astrochemistry