Gadolinium Oxide, Gadolinium Sesquioxide, Gadolinium Trioxide, Gadolinia, 12064-62-9

Gadolinium Oxide, Gadolinium Sesquioxide, Gadolinium Trioxide, Gadolinia, 12064-62-9

GADOLINIUM OXIDE (GD₂O₃)
GADOLINIUM OXIDE / GADOLINIA / GADOLINIUM SESQUIOXIDE / GADOLINIUM TRIOXIDE
1. PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION AND CHEMICAL IDENTITY

2. CHEMICAL STRUCTURE
2.1. Molecular Structure
Gadolinium oxide is the oxide compound of the rare earth element gadolinium. Gadolinium ions (Gd³⁺) and oxide ions (O²⁻) are present in a 2:3 ratio. It exists in cubic and monoclinic phases (depending on synthesis and thermal history). It is known for its high melting point, thermal stability, and strong paramagnetic properties. It is insoluble in water but slowly soluble in strong acids.

Structural Features:

                    GADOLINIUM OXIDE [Gd₂O₃]
                          |
                Gd³⁺ - O²⁻ Ionic Bonds
                          |
        +----------------+----------------+
        |                |                |
    Cubic /            White-Pink      High Thermal
    Monoclinic         Powder Form     Stability
    Crystal Structure

2.2. Structural Properties

3. PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

4. PURITY GRADES

5. STABILITY AND REACTIVITY

5.1. Chemical Reactions

• Reaction with Acids:
  Gd₂O₃ + 6HCl → 2GdCl₃ + 3H₂O
  Gd₂O₃ + 6HNO₃ → 2Gd(NO₃)₃ + 3H₂O
  Gd₂O₃ + 3H₂SO₄ → Gd₂(SO₄)₃ + 3H₂O

• Carbonation (Over Time):
  Gd₂O₃ + 3CO₂ + 3H₂O → Gd₂(CO₃)₃·3H₂O (slow)

6. APPLICATION AREAS
6.1. Magnetic and Microwave Materials

6.2. Optical and Laser Applications

6.3. Nuclear Technology

6.4. Medical and Imaging

6.5. Advanced Ceramics and Metallurgy

6.6. Sectoral Suitability Table

7. PRODUCTION PROCESS

7.1. Major Producing Countries

8. ALTERNATIVE / SUBSTITUTE PRODUCTS

9. SAFETY AND TOXICOLOGY

9.1. GHS Classification

Signal Word: WARNING

Hazard Pictograms: GHS07 (Exclamation Mark)

10. PRECAUTIONARY STATEMENTS (P-CODES)

11. FIRST AID MEASURES

12. STORAGE AND SHELF LIFE

13. PACKAGING OPTIONS

14. TRANSPORT INFORMATION

15. REGULATORY STATUS

16. OTHER NAMES AND SYNONYMS

17. QUICK REFERENCE TABLE

18. CRITICAL WARNINGS AND BEST PRACTICES

CRITICAL WARNINGS:

• High Value: Gadolinium is a critical and valuable rare earth element for magnetic, optical, and nuclear applications. Losses should be minimized and recycling options explored.

• High Purity Requirement: Optical, electronic, and magnetic crystal applications require high purity (>99.9%). Purity level directly affects application performance.

• Magnetic Properties: Exhibits strong paramagnetic behavior due to the 4f electrons of the Gd³⁺ ion; this is a critical property for magnetic applications.

• Nuclear Applications: Due to the high neutron capture cross-section of Gd isotopes, it is used in reactor control rods; nuclear purity requirements differ.

• Powder Hazard: Fine powder form may cause respiratory tract irritation. Dust control measures must be taken.

BEST PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS:

• Storage:

  • Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.

  • Use moisture-proof, tightly closed containers.

  • Keep away from acids and oxidizing agents.

  • Store at room temperature (15-25°C).

• Handling:

  • Use in well-ventilated areas with local exhaust ventilation.

  • Use a dust mask (N95 or better; FFP2/FFP3 for nano/submicron), protective goggles, and gloves.

  • Avoid dust formation and inhalation.

  • Wash hands thoroughly after handling.

  • For dissolution in acids, add oxide to acid slowly with cooling and stirring.

• Waste Management:

  • Dispose of in accordance with local regulations.

  • Do not discharge into water sources.

  • For large quantities, rare earth recycling and recovery should be considered (economically viable).

LEGAL DISCLAIMER
This Technical Data Sheet (TDS) is for informational purposes only and has been prepared based on available technical data. The user is solely responsible for determining the suitability of the product for their specific applications and for complying with all local, national, and international regulations. For complete safety, storage, handling, transport, disposal, and regulatory compliance information, the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier must be consulted. This document does not substitute professional advice. Gadolinium oxide is a critical rare earth material for magnetic, optical, and nuclear applications; careful handling, storage, and recycling planning are required due to high purity requirements and value.