Germanium Dioxide, 1310-53-8

Germanium Oxide, Germanium Dioxide, 1310-53-8

GERMANIUM DIOXIDE (GEO₂)
GERMANIUM DIOXIDE / GERMANIUM OXIDE / GERMANIUM(IV) OXIDE
1. PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION AND CHEMICAL IDENTITY

2. CHEMICAL STRUCTURE
2.1. Molecular Structure
Germanium dioxide is an inorganic compound of germanium and oxygen. Germanium ions (Ge⁴⁺) and oxide ions (O²⁻) are present in a 1:2 ratio. It exists in two main polymorphic forms: tetragonal (rutile-like) and hexagonal (quartz-like). It is known for its high optical transparency, high refractive index, and semiconducting properties. It is slightly soluble in water but soluble in acids.

Structural Features:

                    GERMANIUM DIOXIDE [GeO₂]
                          |
                Ge⁴⁺ - O²⁻ Ionic/Covalent Bonds
                          |
        +----------------+----------------+
        |                |                |
    Tetragonal /       White Powder     High Refractive
    Hexagonal         Form              Index
    Crystal Structure

2.2. Structural Properties

3. PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

4. PURITY GRADES

5. STABILITY AND REACTIVITY

5.1. Chemical Reactions

• Reaction with Acids:
  GeO₂ + 4HCl → GeCl₄ + 2H₂O
  GeO₂ + 4HNO₃ → Ge(NO₃)₄ + 2H₂O
  GeO₂ + 2H₂SO₄ → Ge(SO₄)₂ + 2H₂O

• Reaction with Bases:
  GeO₂ + 2NaOH → Na₂GeO₃ + H₂O

• Reduction (at High Temperature):
  GeO₂ + 2H₂ → Ge + 2H₂O
  GeO₂ + 2C → Ge + 2CO

6. APPLICATION AREAS
6.1. Optics and Fiber Optics

6.2. Electronics

6.3. Glass and Ceramics

6.4. Catalyst Applications

6.5. Research

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:

• Fiber Optic Applications: GeO₂ is the most important additive in silica fiber optic cables for increasing the refractive index. High purity requirements are critical.

• High Refractive Index: A valuable property for optical glasses and lenses.

• Semiconducting Properties: Used in germanium-based semiconductor production.

• Polymorphic Structure: Tetragonal and hexagonal forms show different solubility and reactivity.

• High Purity Requirement: Optical and fiber optic applications may require 99.999% purity.

• 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 reducing 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.

  • Ensure controlled atmosphere conditions for optical applications.

• Waste Management:

  • Dispose of in accordance with local regulations.

  • Do not discharge into water sources.

  • For large quantities, germanium recovery should be considered (valuable metal).

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. Germanium dioxide is a critical material for optical, fiber optic, and semiconductor applications; careful handling, storage, and recycling planning are required due to high purity requirements and value.