Ytterbium Oxide, Ytterbia, Ytterbium Sesquioxide, 1314-37-0

Ytterbium Oxide, Ytterbia, Ytterbium Sesquioxide, 1314-37-0

🧪 Ytterbium(III) Oxide (Yb₂O₃)

Ytterbium(III) oxide, also known as Ytterbia, is a rare earth oxide composed of ytterbium and oxygen. It is valued for its high density, thermal stability, and optical properties, making it useful in ceramics, electronics, and laser applications.

1️⃣ Chemical Identity

• Chemical Name: Ytterbium(III) Oxide

• Formula: Yb₂O₃

• Molecular Weight: 394.08 g/mol

• CAS Number: 1314-37-0

• EC Number: 215-233-5

• Appearance: White to pale yellow powder

• Crystal Structure: Cubic bixbyite type

• Density: ~9.17 g/cm³

• Melting Point: ~2,420 °C

• Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in strong acids

2️⃣ Physical & Chemical Properties

• Optical Properties: Exhibits absorption bands in the infrared region; used in laser and optical devices.

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

• Electronic Properties: Functions as a dielectric material in thin films and coatings.

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

3️⃣ Applications

• Optics & Lasers:

  • Yb³⁺ ions are widely used in solid-state lasers, especially around 1 µm emission.

  • Infrared optical devices and specialty ceramics.

• Electronics:

  • Thin film coatings and dielectric layers in advanced devices.

• Ceramics:

  • Additive in high-performance ceramics for improved thermal resistance.

• Metallurgy:

  • Alloying additive to enhance mechanical properties.

• Chemical Precursors:

  • Starting material for ytterbium salts (chlorides, nitrates) used in catalysis and organometallic chemistry.

4️⃣ Synonyms

• Ytterbium Oxide

• Ytterbium(III) Oxide

• Ytterbia

• Yb₂O₃

• Ytterbium 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: Ytterbium(III) Oxide (CAS 1314-37-0) is a rare earth oxide with optical, electronic, and ceramic applications, making it indispensable in lasers, IR optics, electronics, and advanced materials.