Holmium Chloride, Holmium Trichloride, Holmium Chloride Anhydrous, 10138-62-2

Holmium Chloride, Holmium Trichloride, Holmium Chloride Anhydrous, 10138-62-2

HOLMIUM CHLORIDE (HOCL₃)
HOLMIUM CHLORIDE / HOLMIUM TRICHLORIDE / HOLMIUM(III) CHLORIDE / HOLMIUM CHLORIDE ANHYDROUS
1. PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION AND CHEMICAL IDENTITY

2. CHEMICAL STRUCTURE
2.1. Molecular Structure
Holmium chloride is the chloride salt of the rare earth element holmium. Holmium ions (Ho³⁺) and chloride ions (Cl⁻) are present in a 1:3 ratio. It appears as a yellow crystalline solid. Due to its hygroscopic nature, it is sensitive to degradation in humid environments. It is soluble in water and ethanol. High purity grades (3N–4N) are available for optical and electronic applications.

Structural Features:

                    HOLMIUM CHLORIDE [HoCl₃]
                          |
                Ho³⁺ - Cl⁻ Ionic Bonds
                          |
        +----------------+----------------+
        |                |                |
    Yellow Crystalline Soluble in         Highly
                       Water and         Hygroscopic
                       Ethanol

2.2. Structural Properties

3. PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

4. PURITY GRADES

5. STABILITY AND REACTIVITY

5.1. Chemical Reactions

• Thermal Decomposition:
  2HoCl₃ → 2HoCl₂ + Cl₂ (~800°C)
  2HoCl₃ + 3H₂O → Ho₂O₃ + 6HCl (hydrolysis)

• Behavior in Aqueous Solution:
  HoCl₃(aq) → Ho³⁺(aq) + 3Cl⁻(aq)

• Precipitation with Alkali:
  HoCl₃ + 3NaOH → Ho(OH)₃↓ + 3NaCl

• Precipitation with Ammonia:
  HoCl₃ + 3NH₄OH → Ho(OH)₃↓ + 3NH₄Cl

6. APPLICATION AREAS
6.1. Optical Materials and Lasers

6.2. Catalyst Applications

6.3. Electronics and Nanotechnology

6.4. 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:

• Highly Hygroscopic Nature: Holmium chloride has a very high moisture absorption capacity. When exposed to air, it rapidly absorbs moisture, begins to dissolve, and loses its quality. Extreme care must be taken to avoid moisture during storage and handling.

• Thermal Decomposition: Begins to decompose above ~730°C; at higher temperatures, toxic hydrogen chloride (HCl) gas is released. Ventilation is essential.

• Incompatibility: Contact with strong oxidizing agents creates a fire and explosion risk.

• Eye and Skin Irritation: Due to its acidic nature, it causes irritation to skin and eyes. Protective equipment is mandatory during use.

• Environmental Impact: Classified as environmentally hazardous under UN 3077; release into water sources must be prevented.

BEST PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS:

• Storage:

  • Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.

  • Use moisture-proof, airtight containers.

  • Keep away from oxidizing agents.

  • Store at room temperature (15-25°C).

• Handling:

  • Immediately close containers tightly when not in use.

  • Ensure a dry working environment during use (humidity control).

  • Use a dust mask (N95 or better), protective goggles, and chemically resistant gloves.

  • Avoid dust formation and inhalation.

  • Wash hands thoroughly after handling.

  • When preparing solutions, add slowly due to acidic character.

• Waste Management:

  • Dispose of in accordance with local regulations as heavy metal waste.

  • Do not discharge into water sources or sewers.

  • For large quantities, rare earth 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 chloride requires careful handling and storage due to its highly hygroscopic nature and role in optical applications; it is an important raw material for laser, optical, and catalyst applications.