Hexagonal closed packing: ABAB Stacking
B Layer
A Layer
B Layer
A layer
Image 1 : Actual Model
In hexagonal closed packing (HCP), the arrangement of atoms or spheres is such that
each sphere is surrounded by six neighbouring spheres, forming a close-packed structure.
The stacking sequence of layers in HCP is often denoted as ABAB.
- A layer (Green or Orange Layer): This is the first layer of spheres. The spheres are
arranged in a hexagonal pattern, and this layer is denoted as 'A.'
- B layer(Pink Layer): The second layer is placed directly above the first layer, and the
spheres in this layer are positioned in the interstitial sites (gaps) of the first layer. The
arrangement in this layer is also hexagonal, but the spheres are aligned with the
depressions in the first layer, creating a different pattern. This layer is denoted as 'B.'
-A layer (again): The third layer is a repeat of the first layer, so it is denoted as 'A' again. It
is aligned with the first layer, and the spheres in this layer are positioned above the
spheres in the first layer.
This stacking sequence of A-B-A-B continues as the layers are added.
The ABAB stacking sequence results in a hexagonal arrangement in which each sphere is
surrounded by six neighbouring spheres in the same layer (like the first and third layers)
and three spheres in the layer above and three in the layer below (like the second layer).
This close-packing arrangement is characteristic of hexagonal closed packing structures.
It's important to note that in HCP structures, the repeating unit cell contains three layers.
Materials used:
-Small, identical balls (ping pong balls, Styrofoam balls, or any small spheres)
-Glue or adhesive putty, rular, markers
-Cardboard or a sturdy base, paint (optional)
Properties of HCP -ABAB Stacked Lattice:
Hexagonal Close Packing (HCP) with ABAB stacking is a specific arrangement of atoms or
spheres that exhibits certain properties. Here are some properties associated with HCP
and ABAB stacking:
1. Close-Packed Structure:
HCP with ABAB stacking is a type of close-packed structure, where each atom or sphere
is in close contact with six neighbouring atoms in the same layer and three atoms in the
layer above and three in the layer below. This arrangement maximises packing efficiency.
2. Coordination Number:
The coordination number of each atom in an HCP structure with ABAB stacking is 12.
This means that each atom is in direct contact with 12 neighbouring atoms.
3. Efficient Packing:
HCP structures, in general, are known for their efficient packing. The arrangement allows
for a high packing density, which is favourable in materials with close-packed structures.
4. Anisotropic Properties:
HCP structures often exhibit anisotropic properties. Anisotropy means that the material's
properties vary with direction. In HCP structures, certain directions or axes may have
different physical and mechanical properties than others.
5. Crystal Structure:
HCP with ABAB stacking is a type of crystal structure. Crystal structures are
characterised by a regular and repeating arrangement of atoms or spheres in three
dimensions. The ABAB stacking sequence contributes to the overall stability of the crystal
lattice.
6. Stacking Faults:
The ABAB stacking sequence can be prone to stacking faults, which are deviations from
the regular stacking pattern. These faults can affect the material's mechanical and
electronic properties.
7. Common in Metals:
HCP structures with ABAB stacking are commonly found in certain metals, such as
magnesium and zinc. The atomic arrangement in these metals follows the ABAB stacking
sequence.
8. Examples of Materials:
Materials with HCP structures and ABAB stacking include some metals like magnesium
(Mg) and zinc (Zn). Understanding the stacking sequence is crucial for predicting material
properties.
9. High Melting Points:
Metals with HCP structures and ABAB stacking often exhibit high melting points. The
strong atomic bonding in the close-packed structure contributes to the material's stability at
high temperatures.
10. Crystallographic Axes:
In HCP structures, crystallographic axes are not of equal length. The relationships
between the crystallographic axes can affect the material's behaviour under different
conditions.
Understanding the properties of HCP with ABAB stacking is essential in materials science
and metallurgy, particularly in the design and analysis of materials with these crystal
structures.
Conclusion:
Understanding the properties of HCP with ABAB stacking is essential in materials
science and metallurgy, particularly in the design and analysis of materials with these
crystal structures.This experiment involved careful consideration of several factors to
ensure an accurate representation of the HCP ABAB lattice which includes;
• Symmetry and Close Packing
• ABAB stacking sequence
• Layer Thickness and Center-to-Center Distances
• Secure attachment
• Visual Differentiations
