Lutetium Fluoride, Lutetium Trifluoride, 13760-81-1

Lutetium Fluoride, Lutetium Trifluoride, 13760-81-1

LUTETIUM FLUORIDE (LUF₃)
LUTETIUM FLUORIDE / LUTETIUM TRIFLUORIDE / LUTETIUM(III) FLUORIDE
1. PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION AND CHEMICAL IDENTITY

2. CHEMICAL STRUCTURE
2.1. Molecular Structure
Lutetium fluoride is the fluoride salt of the rare earth element lutetium. Lutetium ions (Lu³⁺) and fluoride ions (F⁻) are present in a 1:3 ratio. It has an orthorhombic crystal structure and appears as a white crystalline powder. It is insoluble in water but soluble in acids. High purity grades (2N–5N) are available for optical, laser, and advanced ceramic applications. It is one of the highest density fluoride compounds among rare earth elements.

Structural Features:

                    LUTETIUM FLUORIDE [LuF₃]
                          |
                Lu³⁺ - F⁻ Ionic Bonds
                          |
        +----------------+----------------+
        |                |                |
    Orthorhombic       Insoluble in      Soluble in
    Crystal            Water             Acids
    Structure

2.2. Structural Properties

3. PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

4. PURITY GRADES

5. STABILITY AND REACTIVITY

5.1. Chemical Reactions

• Reaction with Acids:
  LuF₃ + 3HCl → LuCl₃ + 3HF
  LuF₃ + 3HNO₃ → Lu(NO₃)₃ + 3HF

• Reaction with Bases:
  LuF₃ + 3NaOH → Lu(OH)₃↓ + 3NaF (at high temperature)

• Thermal Decomposition:
  2LuF₃ → 2LuF₂ + F₂ (above ~1,500°C)

6. APPLICATION AREAS
6.1. Optics and Laser Applications

6.2. Industrial Coatings

6.3. Advanced Materials

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:

• High Value Rare Earth Compound: Lutetium fluoride is one of the highest density fluoride compounds among rare earth elements and requires careful handling and recycling planning due to its high value.

• Optical Applications: Critical material for infrared optics, laser host materials, and optical ceramics due to its low refractive index and wide optical transmission range (UV-IR).

• High Purity Requirement: Optical and electronic applications require high purity (>99.9%); impurities negatively affect optical performance.

• Fluoride Content: Contact with acids may release toxic hydrogen fluoride (HF) gas. Acid use must be controlled.

• 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.

  • Ensure controlled conditions when working with acids.

  • Take precautions against HF formation during high-temperature processes.

• Waste Management:

  • Dispose of in accordance with local regulations.

  • Do not discharge into water sources.

  • For large quantities, rare earth recycling 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. Lutetium fluoride is a critical rare earth compound for infrared optical and advanced ceramic applications; careful handling, storage, and recycling planning are required due to high purity requirements and value.