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

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

🧪 Gadolinium(III) Oxide (Gd₂O₃)

1️⃣ Chemical Identity

• Chemical Name: Gadolinium(III) Oxide

• Formula: Gd₂O₃

• Molecular Weight: 362.50 g/mol

• CAS Number: 12064-62-9

• EC Number: 234-169-7

• Appearance: White to pale pink powder

• Crystal Structure: Cubic and monoclinic phases possible

• Density: ~7.41 g/cm³

• Melting Point: ~2,420 °C

• Solubility: Insoluble in water, soluble in acids

2️⃣ Physical & Chemical Properties

• Magnetic Behavior: Paramagnetic due to unpaired 4f electrons in Gd³⁺ ions.

• Optical Properties: High refractive index and infrared transparency; useful in optical ceramics.

• Thermal Stability: Stable at high temperatures, suitable for refractory applications.

• Chemical Stability: Resistant to most environments; reacts with strong acids to form gadolinium salts.

3️⃣ Applications

• Electronics & Magnetics:

  • Precursor for GGG (Gadolinium Gallium Garnet) crystals used in lasers and magneto-optical devices.

  • Used in microwave components and magnetic materials.

• Optics: Transparent ceramics, IR windows, and laser host materials.

• Nuclear Technology: Neutron absorber in nuclear reactors due to high neutron capture cross-section of gadolinium isotopes.

• Medical: Source material for gadolinium-based compounds used in MRI contrast agents.

• Ceramics & Metallurgy: Additive to improve high-temperature stability and grain boundary strength.

4️⃣ Synonyms

• Gadolinium Oxide

• Gadolinium(III) Oxide

• Gadolinium Sesquioxide

• Gadolinium Trioxide

• Gadolinia

• Gd₂O₃

5️⃣ Safety & Handling

• Toxicity: Low acute toxicity, but fine powders may irritate eyes and respiratory tract.

• Protective Equipment: Gloves, goggles, dust mask recommended.

• Storage: Keep in dry, sealed containers away from moisture.

• Waste Disposal: Follow local environmental regulations for rare earth oxides.

📌 Summary: Gadolinium(III) Oxide (CAS 12064-62-9) is a high-purity rare earth oxide with paramagnetic, optical, and thermal stability properties, making it essential in electronics, optics, nuclear reactors, and medical imaging.