Terbium Oxide, Terbium Sesquioxide, Terbia, 12037-01-3

Terbium Oxide, Terbium Sesquioxide, Terbia, 12037-01-3

🧪 Terbium(III,IV) Oxide (Tb₄O₇)

Terbium(III,IV) oxide, also known as terbia, is a mixed-valence rare earth oxide containing both Tb³⁺ and Tb⁴⁺ ions. This dual oxidation state gives it strong redox activity, oxygen storage capacity, and distinctive coloring properties. It is widely used in phosphors, ceramics, and catalytic applications.

1️⃣ Chemical Identity

• Chemical Name: Terbium(III,IV) Oxide

• Formula: Tb₄O₇

• Molecular Weight: 747.69 g/mol

• CAS Number: 12037-01-3

• EC Number: 234-123-7

• Appearance: Dark brown to black powder

• Crystal Structure: Cubic fluorite-related structure

• Density: ~7.3 g/cm³

• Melting Point: ~2,300 °C

• Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in strong acids

2️⃣ Physical & Chemical Properties

• Mixed Valence: Contains both Tb³⁺ and Tb⁴⁺ ions, enabling reversible redox reactions.

• Coloring Agent: Produces greenish hues in ceramics and glass.

• Catalytic Behavior: Oxygen storage and release capacity, similar to cerium oxide.

• Thermal Stability: High melting point and stability in oxidative environments.

3️⃣ Applications

• Phosphors:

  • Terbium-doped phosphors emit green light, used in fluorescent lamps, LEDs, and display screens.

• Glass & Ceramics:

  • Acts as a pigment, imparting green coloration.

  • Enhances UV absorption in specialty glasses.

• Catalysis:

  • Oxygen storage material in automotive catalytic converters.

  • Redox catalyst in chemical processes.

• Electronics:

  • Research applications in solid oxide fuel cells and magneto-optical devices.

• Metallurgy:

  • Alloying additive to improve mechanical properties.

4️⃣ Synonyms

• Terbium Oxide

• Terbium(III,IV) Oxide

• Terbia

• Tb₄O₇

• Terbium Sesquioxide (sometimes misapplied)

5️⃣ Safety & Handling

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

• Precautions: Gloves, goggles, and dust masks recommended.

• Storage: Keep in dry, sealed containers; stable under normal conditions.

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

📌 Summary: Terbium(III,IV) Oxide (CAS 12037-01-3) is a mixed-valence rare earth oxide with oxygen storage capacity, catalytic activity, and phosphor applications, making it indispensable in lighting, displays, ceramics, and advanced materials.