We unleash your business potential by maximize the business innovation.
Send EmailEuropium Carbonate Hydrate, 86546-99-8
EUROPIUM CARBONATE HYDRATE (EUROPIUM(III) CARBONATE)
Chemical Name: Europium(III) Carbonate Hydrate
CAS Number: 86546-99-8
EC Number: Not commonly listed
UN Number: 3077 (Environmentally hazardous substance)
Customs Tariff Code: 2836.99.00.00
1. PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION AND CHEMICAL IDENTITY
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Name (IUPAC) | Europium(III) carbonate hydrate |
| Other Names | Europium Carbonate, Europium Tricarbonate Hydrate, Eu₂(CO₃)₃·xH₂O |
| CAS Number | 86546-99-8 |
| EC Number (EINECS) | Not commonly listed |
| Molecular Formula | Eu₂(CO₃)₃·xH₂O |
| Molecular Weight | ~546 g/mol (anhydrous basis; varies with hydration) |
| Chemical Class | Inorganic carbonate / Rare earth metal carbonate |
| Appearance | White crystalline powder |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Crystal Structure | Hydrated form |
CHEMICAL STRUCTURE AND DESCRIPTION:
Europium Carbonate Hydrate (Eu₂(CO₃)₃·xH₂O) is the carbonate salt of europium in the +3 oxidation state, containing variable amounts of water of crystallization. It is a white, water-insoluble powder that readily dissolves in acids. Europium is a lanthanide element with exceptional optical properties, particularly known for its intense red luminescence. Europium compounds are critical for phosphors used in lighting, displays, and various optical applications. Europium Carbonate is a key precursor for europium oxide (Eu₂O₃) production and is used in catalysts, phosphors, optical materials, and electronic applications.
Structural Features:
-
Insoluble in water
-
Readily dissolves in acids
-
White crystalline appearance
-
Thermal decomposition yields Eu₂O₃
-
Key precursor for europium-based phosphors
-
Characteristic red luminescence properties
2. PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | Eu₂(CO₃)₃·xH₂O |
| Molecular Weight | ~546 g/mol (anhydrous basis) |
| Appearance | White crystalline powder |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Density | ~4.8 g/cm³ |
| Melting Point | Not distinct; decomposes on heating |
| Decomposition Temperature | ~300-700°C (to Eu₂O₃) |
| Solubility in Water | Insoluble |
| Solubility in Acids | Soluble |
| Solubility in Organic Solvents | Insoluble |
| Hygroscopicity | Not hygroscopic |
| Thermal Decomposition | Eu₂(CO₃)₃ → Eu₂O₃ + 3CO₂↑ |
| Optical Properties | Intense red luminescence (phosphors) |
| Magnetic Properties | Paramagnetic |
Europium Carbonate Hydrate is a white, odorless, crystalline powder with a density of approximately 4.8 g/cm³. It is insoluble in water but readily dissolves in acids. Upon heating, it decomposes to europium oxide (Eu₂O₃) with the release of carbon dioxide (CO₂). Europium compounds are renowned for their intense red luminescence and are critical for phosphor applications in lighting and displays.
3. SOLUBILITY PROFILE
| Solvent | Solubility | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Water | Insoluble | All temperatures |
| Dilute Acids | Soluble | Forms Eu³⁺ salts |
| Hydrochloric Acid | Soluble | EuCl₃ formation |
| Nitric Acid | Soluble | Eu(NO₃)₃ formation |
| Sulfuric Acid | Soluble | Eu₂(SO₄)₃ formation |
| Organic Solvents | Insoluble | - |
Europium Carbonate is insoluble in water and organic solvents. It readily dissolves in dilute acids, forming the corresponding europium(III) salts. This solubility profile makes it useful as a precursor for various europium compounds.
4. CHEMICAL PROPERTIES AND REACTIONS
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Class | Inorganic carbonate / Rare earth metal carbonate |
| Oxidation State | Eu³⁺ (+3) |
| Thermal Decomposition | Eu₂(CO₃)₃ → Eu₂O₃ + 3CO₂↑ (~300-700°C) |
| Acid Dissolution | Dissolves in acids forming Eu³⁺ salts |
| Precipitation | Forms insoluble carbonates from Eu³⁺ solutions |
| Hydrolysis | Negligible in aqueous suspensions |
| Complex Formation | Forms complexes with various ligands |
Europium Carbonate is a typical rare earth carbonate. Upon heating, it decomposes to europium oxide (Eu₂O₃). It readily dissolves in acids to form europium salts and is an important precursor for various europium compounds used in phosphor and optical applications.
Key Chemical Reactions:
Thermal Decomposition:
Eu₂(CO₃)₃ → Eu₂O₃ + 3CO₂↑ (~300-700°C)
Acid Dissolution:
Eu₂(CO₃)₃ + 6HCl → 2EuCl₃ + 3CO₂↑ + 3H₂O
Precipitation Reaction:
2Eu³⁺ + 3CO₃²⁻ → Eu₂(CO₃)₃ ↓
5. SPECIFICATIONS (TECHNICAL AND HIGH PURITY)
| Parameter | Technical Grade | High Purity |
|---|---|---|
| Purity (Eu₂(CO₃)₃) | ≥ 99.0% | ≥ 99.9% - 99.99% |
| Appearance | White powder | White crystalline powder |
| Rare Earth Impurities | ≤ 0.5% | ≤ 0.01% - 0.001% |
| Iron (Fe) | ≤ 0.01% | ≤ 0.001% |
| Calcium (Ca) | ≤ 0.01% | ≤ 0.001% |
| Magnesium (Mg) | ≤ 0.01% | ≤ 0.001% |
| Sodium (Na) | ≤ 0.05% | ≤ 0.01% |
| Chloride (Cl) | ≤ 0.01% | ≤ 0.005% |
| Sulfate (SO₄) | ≤ 0.01% | ≤ 0.005% |
| Loss on Ignition | ~30-35% | ~30-35% |
| Shelf Life | ~2 years | ~2 years |
Europium Carbonate is available in various grades from technical (≥ 99%) to high purity (≥ 99.99%). High purity grades are essential for phosphor, optical, and electronic applications where trace impurities significantly affect luminescence performance.
6. APPLICATIONS AND INDUSTRIAL USES
6.1. Europium Oxide (Eu₂O₃) Production (Most Important Application)
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Primary Precursor | Thermal decomposition yields high-purity Eu₂O₃ |
| Phosphor Precursor | Used in red phosphor production |
| Catalyst Precursor | Used in catalyst preparation |
Europium Carbonate is the primary precursor for europium oxide (Eu₂O₃) production. Upon heating, it decomposes to Eu₂O₃, which is essential for red phosphors, catalysts, and optical applications.
6.2. Phosphors and Optical Applications (Critical Application)
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Red Phosphors | Critical for red emission in lighting (LEDs) and displays (CRT, LCD) |
| Energy-Saving Lamps | Used in fluorescent lamp phosphors |
| LED Phosphors | Used in white LED production |
| Optical Glasses | Used in specialty glass formulations |
| Laser Materials | Used in laser systems |
| Upconversion Materials | Used in upconversion phosphor synthesis |
Europium compounds are critical for red-emitting phosphors used in lighting, displays, and optical applications. Europium-doped phosphors provide the red component in RGB color systems for LEDs, CRT displays, and fluorescent lighting.
6.3. Catalyst Applications
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Catalyst Precursor | Precursor for europium-based catalysts |
| Chemical Synthesis | Used in catalytic applications |
6.4. Electronics and Vacuum Systems
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Sputtering Targets | Precursor for Eu₂O₃ sputtering targets |
| Thin Film Coatings | Used in vacuum deposition systems |
| Electronic Materials | Used in specialty electronic applications |
6.5. Nanotechnology
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Eu₂O₃ Nanoparticles | Source material for Eu₂O₃ nanoparticle production |
| Luminescent Nanomaterials | Used in advanced luminescent nanomaterial synthesis |
| Nanophosphors | Used in nanophosphor applications |
6.6. Defense and Specialty Optics
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Laser Optics | Used in precision laser systems |
| Optical Filters | Used in specialized filter systems |
| Spectroscopic Systems | Used in defense and spectroscopy applications |
7. ALTERNATIVE / EQUIVALENT PRODUCTS
| Product | Description | Preference Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Europium Oxide (Eu₂O₃) | Direct use in phosphors and optics | Already oxidized form |
| Europium Hydroxide (Eu(OH)₃) | Alternative precursor for Eu₂O₃ | Different decomposition pathway |
| Europium Nitrate (Eu(NO₃)₃) | Soluble europium source | Water-soluble, easy processing |
| Lanthanide Carbonates (La₂(CO₃)₃, Ce₂(CO₃)₃) | Similar rare earth carbonate functions | Different optical properties |
| Terbium Carbonate (Tb₂(CO₃)₃) | Alternative for phosphor applications | Different emission characteristics (green) |
8. SECTOR SUITABILITY TABLE
| Sector / Application | Suitability | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Catalysts | Suitable | Eu₂O₃ catalyst production precursor |
| Optics & Phosphors | Critical | Red emission phosphor systems |
| Electronics | Suitable | Vacuum systems and sputtering targets |
| Nanotechnology | Suitable | Eu₂O₃ nanoparticle production source |
| Defense | Suitable | Laser optics and filter systems |
| Cosmetics | Not Suitable | Direct use not recommended |
| Food & Pharmaceuticals | Prohibited | Not permitted due to carbonate structure |
9. COMMON NAMES
-
Europium carbonate
-
White carbonate powder
-
Phosphor additive
-
Europium salt
-
Europium tricarbonate hydrate
-
Rare earth carbonate
-
Red phosphor precursor
10. PRODUCTION PROCESS
| Stage | Description |
|---|---|
| Starting Material | Europium-containing rare earth solutions or salts |
| Purification | Purification of europium salt solution |
| Precipitation | Carbonate precipitation with sodium carbonate or ammonium bicarbonate |
| Reaction | 2Eu³⁺ + 3CO₃²⁻ → Eu₂(CO₃)₃ ↓ |
| Filtration | Separation of precipitate from mother liquor |
| Washing | Washing to remove impurities |
| Drying | Drying at 100-150°C with controlled hydration |
| Grinding | Grinding to desired particle size |
| Packaging | Packaging |
Reaction Equation:
2EuCl₃ + 3Na₂CO₃ → Eu₂(CO₃)₃ + 6NaCl
Production Types: Technical and high purity grades
Major Producing Countries: China, India, United States
Commercial Purity: Ranges from 99% to 99.99%
11. SAFETY AND TOXICOLOGY
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| GHS Classification | GHS07 (Warning) |
| Hazard Statements | H315 (Skin irritation), H319 (Serious eye irritation), H335 (Respiratory tract irritation) |
| Precautionary Statements | P261, P280, P302+P352, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338 |
| Signal Word | Warning |
| UN Number | 3077 (Environmentally hazardous substance) |
| Carcinogenicity | Not classified |
| Reproductive Toxicity | Not classified |
| Ecotoxicity | Low to moderate aquatic toxicity |
SPECIAL WARNINGS: Europium Carbonate may cause skin irritation, serious eye irritation, and respiratory tract irritation. It is classified as an environmentally hazardous substance under UN 3077. Environmental release must be prevented. Europium compounds are generally considered of low toxicity but should be handled with appropriate precautions.
12. TRANSPORT INFORMATION
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| UN Number | 3077 (Environmentally hazardous substance) |
| Hazard Class | 9 |
| Packing Group | III |
| Proper Shipping Name | Environmentally hazardous substance, solid, n.o.s. (Europium carbonate) |
| Marine Pollutant | Yes |
| ADR/RID Label | 9 |
Europium Carbonate is classified as an environmentally hazardous substance under UN 3077.
13. REGULATORY INFORMATION
| Region | Status |
|---|---|
| EU | REACH registered |
| Turkey (KKDİK) | Mandatory compliance; registration required |
| USA (TSCA) | Listed |
| EC Number | Not commonly listed |
| Customs Tariff Code | 2836.99.00.00 |
Europium Carbonate is registered in all major industrial markets. KKDİK registration is required for use in Turkey.
14. STORAGE AND HANDLING
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Storage Conditions | Cool, dry, well-ventilated area |
| Container Requirements | Tightly closed containers |
| Materials to Avoid | Strong acids, moisture |
| Shelf Life | ~2 years (under proper storage) |
| Hygroscopicity | Not hygroscopic |
| Packaging Options | 100 g, 500 g, 1 kg, 5 kg, 25 kg |
Handling Notes:
-
Avoid dust formation and inhalation
-
Avoid skin and eye contact (use protective gloves and safety goggles)
-
Use in well-ventilated areas
-
Keep away from acids
-
Prevent environmental release
-
Store in cool, dry, well-ventilated area
15. FIRE-FIGHTING MEASURES
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Fire Hazard | Not flammable |
| Extinguishing Media | Water spray, CO₂, dry chemical powder |
| Special Hazards | Thermal decomposition releases CO₂ |
| Protective Equipment | Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), full protective clothing |
| Decomposition Products | Europium oxides, CO₂ |
Europium Carbonate is not flammable. Thermal decomposition may release CO₂.
16. ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Personal Protection | Wear appropriate PPE (dust mask, safety goggles, protective clothing, gloves) |
| Ventilation | Increase ventilation |
| Containment | Prevent dust dispersion; contain spill |
| Cleaning Methods | Carefully sweep or vacuum; place in appropriate disposal container |
| Environmental Precautions | Prevent entry into drains, sewers, and water bodies |
| Waste Disposal | Dispose according to local regulations |
In case of spillage, appropriate personal protective equipment must be worn. Environmental release must be prevented.
17. FIRST AID MEASURES
| Exposure Route | Action |
|---|---|
| Inhalation | Move person to fresh air. If respiratory irritation persists, seek medical attention. |
| Skin Contact | Wash with plenty of water and soap; remove contaminated clothing. If irritation persists, seek medical attention. |
| Eye Contact | Rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Remove contact lenses if present. Seek medical attention. |
| Ingestion | Rinse mouth with water. Do NOT induce vomiting. Seek medical attention. |
18. RAW MATERIALS AND DOWNSTREAM PRODUCTS
18.1. Raw Materials (Upstream)
| Raw Material | Description |
|---|---|
| Monazite Sand | Rare earth ore containing europium |
| Bastnäsite | Rare earth carbonate mineral |
| Europium Chloride (EuCl₃) | Starting material for precipitation |
| Europium Nitrate (Eu(NO₃)₃) | Alternative starting material |
| Sodium Carbonate (Na₂CO₃) | Precipitation agent |
18.2. Downstream Products
| Product | Application |
|---|---|
| Europium Oxide (Eu₂O₃) | Red phosphors, catalysts, ceramics |
| Red Phosphors | LEDs, displays, fluorescent lamps |
| Europium-Doped Materials | Optical amplifiers, laser materials |
| Europium-Based Catalysts | Chemical synthesis |
| Europium Compounds | Various specialty applications |
19. QUALITY CONTROL PARAMETERS
| Parameter | Analytical Method | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Purity | Titration / ICP | Complexometric titration or ICP analysis |
| Europium Content | Gravimetric / ICP | Determined as Eu₂O₃ |
| Carbonate Content | Gravimetric | CO₂ determination |
| Rare Earth Impurities | ICP-MS / ICP-OES | Detection of other lanthanides |
| Metal Impurities | ICP-MS / ICP-OES | Fe, Ca, Mg, Na, Zn, Cu, etc. |
| Loss on Ignition | Gravimetric | Calcination to Eu₂O₃ |
| Appearance | Visual | White powder |
| Particle Size | Laser Diffraction | Particle size distribution |
| Luminescence Testing | Spectrofluorometry | Red emission quality verification |
20. SUMMARY AND CRITICAL WARNINGS
SUMMARY:
Europium Carbonate Hydrate (Eu₂(CO₃)₃·xH₂O, CAS 86546-99-8) is a white, crystalline powder with a molecular weight of approximately 546 g/mol on an anhydrous basis and density of ~4.8 g/cm³. It is insoluble in water but readily dissolves in acids. Thermal decomposition yields europium oxide (Eu₂O₃). Europium compounds are renowned for their intense red luminescence.
Its most important application is as a precursor for europium oxide (Eu₂O₃) used in red-emitting phosphors for LEDs, displays, and fluorescent lighting. Europium is critical for color display technology providing the red component in RGB color systems. It is also used in catalysts, optical materials, nanotechnology, and electronic applications.
The compound is classified as an environmentally hazardous substance under UN 3077. It may cause skin, eye, and respiratory tract irritation. Storage should be in cool, dry, well-ventilated areas away from acids. Shelf life is approximately 2 years under proper storage conditions.
Key Properties:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearance | White crystalline powder |
| Chemical Formula | Eu₂(CO₃)₃·xH₂O |
| Molecular Weight | ~546 g/mol (anhydrous) |
| CAS Number | 86546-99-8 |
| Density | ~4.8 g/cm³ |
| Decomposition Temperature | ~300-700°C (to Eu₂O₃) |
| Water Solubility | Insoluble |
| Primary Use | Eu₂O₃ precursor, red phosphors |
Major Application Areas:
| Sector | Applications |
|---|---|
| Optics & Phosphors | Red phosphors for LEDs, displays, fluorescent lamps |
| Catalysts | Eu₂O₃ catalyst production |
| Electronics | Sputtering targets, thin films |
| Nanotechnology | Eu₂O₃ nanoparticles, luminescent nanomaterials |
| Defense | Laser optics, optical filters |
Key Safety Points:
-
ENVIRONMENTALLY HAZARDOUS: UN 3077
-
IRRITANT: Skin, eye, and respiratory tract irritation
-
STORAGE: Cool, dry, well-ventilated, away from acids
-
PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT: Gloves, safety goggles, dust mask
-
LUMINESCENCE: Critical for optical and display applications
CRITICAL WARNINGS:
-
RED PHOSPHOR CRITICALITY: Europium is essential for red-emitting phosphors used in LEDs, displays (CRT, LCD, OLED), and fluorescent lighting. The red component in RGB color systems depends critically on europium-doped materials. High purity (99.99% and above) is essential for optimal luminescence performance.
-
UN 3077 CLASSIFICATION: Classified as an environmentally hazardous substance under UN 3077. Release into the environment during transport, storage, or disposal must be strictly prevented. It is listed as a marine pollutant.
-
PRECURSOR FOR Eu₂O₃: This compound is the primary precursor for europium oxide production. The quality of the carbonate directly affects the luminescence properties of the final Eu₂O₃ product.
-
OPTICAL PROPERTIES: Europium compounds exhibit intense red luminescence, making them critical for display and lighting technologies. Luminescence performance is highly dependent on purity and crystal structure.
-
CUSTOMS CLASSIFICATION: The correct customs tariff code is 2836.99.00.00.
-
REGULATORY COMPLIANCE: REACH, KKDİK, and TSCA registration requirements apply. Not permitted for food, cosmetic, or pharmaceutical applications.
-
EUROPIUM SUPPLY: Europium is a critical rare earth element with limited supply and high demand for phosphor applications.
-
VALENCE CONTROL: Europium can exist in both +2 and +3 oxidation states. The +3 state is most common for optical applications, but careful control of oxidation state may be required for specific applications.
Important Disclaimer: This Technical Data Sheet (TDS) is for informational purposes only. The information provided is based on available data and is believed to be accurate. However, the user is solely responsible for determining the suitability of the product for their specific applications and for complying with all applicable regulations and safety requirements. For complete safety, handling, storage, and regulatory compliance information, always refer to the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier. All local, national, and international regulations must be followed when working with Europium Carbonate.
