Lutetium Oxide, Lutetium Sesquioxide, Lutetium Trioxide, Lutetia, 12032-20-1

Lutetium Oxide, Lutetium Sesquioxide, Lutetium Trioxide, Lutetia, 12032-20-1

LUTETIUM OXIDE (LU₂O₃)
LUTETIUM OXIDE / LUTETIA / LUTETIUM SESQUIOXIDE / LUTETIUM TRIOXIDE
1. PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION AND CHEMICAL IDENTITY

2. CHEMICAL STRUCTURE
2.1. Molecular Structure
Lutetium oxide is a high-purity oxide of the rare earth element lutetium and oxygen. Lutetium ions (Lu³⁺) and oxide ions (O²⁻) are present in a 2:3 ratio. It has a cubic crystal structure (bixbyite type). It has the highest density among rare earth oxides. It is known for its high thermal stability, chemical inertness, and excellent optical properties. It is insoluble in water but soluble in strong acids.

Structural Features:

                    LUTETIUM OXIDE [Lu₂O₃]
                          |
                Lu³⁺ - O²⁻ Ionic Bonds
                          |
        +----------------+----------------+
        |                |                |
    Cubic (Bixbyite)   White Powder     Highest
    Crystal Structure                   Density

2.2. Structural Properties

3. PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

4. PURITY GRADES

5. STABILITY AND REACTIVITY

5.1. Chemical Reactions

• Reaction with Acids:
  Lu₂O₃ + 6HCl → 2LuCl₃ + 3H₂O
  Lu₂O₃ + 6HNO₃ → 2Lu(NO₃)₃ + 3H₂O
  Lu₂O₃ + 3H₂SO₄ → Lu₂(SO₄)₃ + 3H₂O

• Carbonation (Over Time):
  Lu₂O₃ + 3CO₂ + 3H₂O → Lu₂(CO₃)₃·3H₂O (slow)

6. APPLICATION AREAS
6.1. Optics and Laser Applications

6.2. Electronics

6.3. Nuclear Technology

6.4. Ceramics

6.5. Chemical Precursor

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:

• Highest Density: Lutetium oxide has the highest density among rare earth oxides (~9.4 g/cm³); this property provides advantages for radiation shielding and optical applications.

• High Value and Critical Importance: Lutetium is a critical and valuable rare earth element for optical, laser, and electronic applications. Losses should be minimized and recycling options explored.

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

• Optical Applications: Used as transparent ceramics, IR windows, and laser host materials; doped with Nd³⁺, Yb³⁺ ions for laser crystals.

• 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), 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. Lutetium oxide is a critical rare earth material for laser, optical ceramics, electronics, and advanced material applications; careful handling, storage, and recycling planning are required due to high purity requirements and value.