Dysprosium Oxide, Dysprosia, Dysprosium Sesquioxide, 1308-87-8

Dysprosium Oxide, Dysprosia, Dysprosium Sesquioxide, 1308-87-8

🧪 Dysprosium(III) Oxide (Dy₂O₃)

Dysprosium(III) oxide, also known as Dysprosia, is a rare earth oxide composed of dysprosium and oxygen. It is valued for its magnetic properties, high thermal stability, and role in advanced materials. Dy₂O₃ is a critical compound in the production of high-performance magnets, ceramics, and nuclear applications.

1️⃣ Chemical Identity

• Chemical Name: Dysprosium(III) Oxide

• Formula: Dy₂O₃

• Molecular Weight: 372.998 g/mol

• CAS Number: 1308-87-8

• EC Number: 215-164-2

• Appearance: White to off-white powder

• Crystal Structure: Cubic bixbyite type

• Density: ~7.81 g/cm³

• Melting Point: ~2,340 °C

• Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in acids

2️⃣ Physical & Chemical Properties

• Magnetic Behavior: Dysprosium ions contribute strong paramagnetic properties; Dy is widely used in permanent magnets.

• Thermal Stability: High melting point and phase stability, suitable for refractory applications.

• Optical Properties: Exhibits absorption bands in visible and IR regions.

• Chemical Behavior: Stable in air; reacts with acids to form dysprosium salts.

3️⃣ Applications

• Magnets:

  • Dy₂O₃ is a precursor for dysprosium metal, which is added to NdFeB permanent magnets to improve high-temperature performance.

• Ceramics & Glass:

  • Used as an additive in ceramics for enhanced mechanical and thermal properties.

  • Provides coloring and optical effects in specialty glasses.

• Nuclear Technology:

  • Dysprosium isotopes have high neutron absorption cross-sections; Dy₂O₃ is used in control rods and shielding materials.

• Electronics:

  • Thin films and dielectric applications in advanced devices.

• Optics:

  • Specialty optical materials and infrared applications.

4️⃣ Synonyms

• Dysprosium Oxide

• Dysprosium(III) Oxide

• Dysprosia

• Dy₂O₃

• Dysprosium Sesquioxide

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; protect from moisture.

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

📌 Summary: Dysprosium(III) Oxide (CAS 1308-87-8) is a rare earth oxide with magnetic, thermal, and nuclear properties, making it indispensable in magnets, ceramics, nuclear control rods, and advanced electronics.