Erbium Oxide, Erbia, Erbium Sesquioxide, 12061-16-4

Erbium Oxide, Erbia, Erbium Sesquioxide, 12061-16-4

ERBIUM OXIDE (ER₂O₃)
ERBIUM OXIDE / ERBIA / ERBIUM SESQUIOXIDE / ERBIUM(III) OXIDE
1. PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION AND CHEMICAL IDENTITY

2. CHEMICAL STRUCTURE
2.1. Molecular Structure
Erbium oxide is an oxide of the rare earth element erbium and oxygen. Erbium ions (Er³⁺) and oxide ions (O²⁻) are present in a 2:3 ratio. It has a cubic crystal structure (bixbyite type). It is known for its characteristic pink color, optical properties, and high thermal stability. It is insoluble in water but soluble in strong acids.

Structural Features:

                    ERBIUM OXIDE [Er₂O₃]
                          |
                Er³⁺ - O²⁻ Ionic Bonds
                          |
        +----------------+----------------+
        |                |                |
    Cubic (Bixbyite)   Pink Powder      Optically Active
    Crystal Structure                  (1.55 µm)

2.2. Structural Properties

3. PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

4. PURITY GRADES

5. STABILITY AND REACTIVITY

5.1. Chemical Reactions

• Reaction with Acids:
  Er₂O₃ + 6HCl → 2ErCl₃ + 3H₂O
  Er₂O₃ + 6HNO₃ → 2Er(NO₃)₃ + 3H₂O
  Er₂O₃ + 3H₂SO₄ → Er₂(SO₄)₃ + 3H₂O

• Carbonation (Over Time):
  Er₂O₃ + 3CO₂ + 3H₂O → Er₂(CO₃)₃·3H₂O (slow)

6. APPLICATION AREAS
6.1. Optics and Laser Applications

6.2. Glass and Ceramic Industry

6.3. Electronics

6.4. Metallurgy

6.5. 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:

• Optical Properties: Erbium oxide has optical emission and absorption at 1.55 µm wavelength; this property is critical for telecommunications and fiber optic amplifiers (EDFA).

• Pink Color: The characteristic pink color is valuable for glass and ceramic pigment applications.

• High Purity Requirement: Optical, laser, and fiber amplifier applications require high purity (>99.9%).

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

• 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.

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. Erbium oxide is a critical rare earth material for optical, laser, and telecommunications applications; careful handling and storage are required due to high purity requirements and optical properties.