Holmium Oxide, Holmia, Holmium Sesquioxide, 12055-62-8

Holmium Oxide, Holmia, Holmium Sesquioxide, 12055-62-8

HOLMIUM OXIDE (HO₂O₃)
HOLMIUM OXIDE / HOLMIA / HOLMIUM SESQUIOXIDE / HOLMIUM(III) OXIDE
1. PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION AND CHEMICAL IDENTITY

2. CHEMICAL STRUCTURE
2.1. Molecular Structure
Holmium oxide is an oxide of the rare earth element holmium and oxygen. Holmium ions (Ho³⁺) 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 yellowish-brown color, optical, and magnetic properties. It is insoluble in water but soluble in strong acids.

Structural Features:

                    HOLMIUM OXIDE [Ho₂O₃]
                          |
                Ho³⁺ - O²⁻ Ionic Bonds
                          |
        +----------------+----------------+
        |                |                |
    Cubic (Bixbyite)   Yellow-Brown     Optical/Magnetic
    Crystal Structure   Powder Form      Active

2.2. Structural Properties

3. PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

4. PURITY GRADES

5. STABILITY AND REACTIVITY

5.1. Chemical Reactions

• Reaction with Acids:
  Ho₂O₃ + 6HCl → 2HoCl₃ + 3H₂O
  Ho₂O₃ + 6HNO₃ → 2Ho(NO₃)₃ + 3H₂O
  Ho₂O₃ + 3H₂SO₄ → Ho₂(SO₄)₃ + 3H₂O

• Carbonation (Over Time):
  Ho₂O₃ + 3CO₂ + 3H₂O → Ho₂(CO₃)₃·3H₂O (slow)

6. APPLICATION AREAS
6.1. Optics and Laser Applications

6.2. Glass and Ceramic Industry

6.3. Electronics

6.4. Nuclear Technology

6.5. Metallurgy

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:

• Optical Properties: Holmium oxide provides emission at around ~2.1 µm due to Ho³⁺ ions; this property is critical for medical (kidney stone lithotripsy, soft tissue surgery) and defense laser applications.

• Magnetic Properties: Holmium has a high magnetic moment of 10.6 µB; this property is valuable for magnetic material research.

• High Purity Requirement: Laser, optical, and electronic applications require high purity (>99.9%).

• High Value: Holmium is a critical and valuable rare earth element for optical and magnetic 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. Holmium oxide is a critical rare earth material for optical, magnetic, and nuclear applications; careful handling, storage, and recycling planning are required due to high purity requirements and value.