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HOLMIUM CARBONATE HYDRATE (HOLMIUM(III) CARBONATE)
Chemical Name: Holmium(III) Carbonate Hydrate
CAS Number: 38245-34-0
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) | Holmium(III) carbonate hydrate |
| Other Names | Holmium Carbonate, Holmium Tricarbonate Hydrate, Ho₂(CO₃)₃·xH₂O |
| CAS Number | 38245-34-0 |
| EC Number (EINECS) | Not commonly listed |
| Molecular Formula | Ho₂(CO₃)₃·xH₂O |
| Molecular Weight | ~542 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:
Holmium Carbonate Hydrate (Ho₂(CO₃)₃·xH₂O) is the carbonate salt of holmium in the +3 oxidation state, containing variable amounts of water of crystallization. It is a white, water-insoluble powder that readily dissolves in acids. Holmium is a lanthanide element with one of the highest magnetic moments (10.6 µB) and characteristic optical properties, particularly in the visible and near-infrared regions. Holmium Carbonate is a key precursor for holmium oxide (Ho₂O₃) production and is used in catalysts, laser systems, optical glasses, and electronic applications.
Structural Features:
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Insoluble in water
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Readily dissolves in acids
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White crystalline appearance
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Thermal decomposition yields Ho₂O₃
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Key precursor for holmium-based optical and magnetic materials
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High magnetic moment (10.6 µB)
2. PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | Ho₂(CO₃)₃·xH₂O |
| Molecular Weight | ~542 g/mol (anhydrous basis) |
| Appearance | White crystalline powder |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Density | ~4.8 g/cm³ |
| Melting Point | Not distinct; decomposes on heating |
| Decomposition Temperature | ~300-600°C (to Ho₂O₃) |
| Solubility in Water | Insoluble |
| Solubility in Acids | Soluble |
| Solubility in Organic Solvents | Insoluble |
| Hygroscopicity | Not hygroscopic |
| Thermal Decomposition | Ho₂(CO₃)₃ → Ho₂O₃ + 3CO₂↑ |
| Magnetic Moment | 10.6 µB (one of the highest among elements) |
| Optical Properties | Visible and near-infrared absorption/emission |
Holmium 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 holmium oxide (Ho₂O₃) with the release of carbon dioxide (CO₂). Holmium has one of the highest magnetic moments (10.6 µB) among all elements, making its compounds valuable for magnetic and laser applications.
3. SOLUBILITY PROFILE
| Solvent | Solubility | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Water | Insoluble | All temperatures |
| Dilute Acids | Soluble | Forms Ho³⁺ salts |
| Hydrochloric Acid | Soluble | HoCl₃ formation |
| Nitric Acid | Soluble | Ho(NO₃)₃ formation |
| Sulfuric Acid | Soluble | Ho₂(SO₄)₃ formation |
| Organic Solvents | Insoluble | - |
Holmium Carbonate is insoluble in water and organic solvents. It readily dissolves in dilute acids, forming the corresponding holmium(III) salts. This solubility profile makes it useful as a precursor for various holmium compounds.
4. CHEMICAL PROPERTIES AND REACTIONS
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Class | Inorganic carbonate / Rare earth metal carbonate |
| Oxidation State | Ho³⁺ (+3) |
| Thermal Decomposition | Ho₂(CO₃)₃ → Ho₂O₃ + 3CO₂↑ (~300-600°C) |
| Acid Dissolution | Dissolves in acids forming Ho³⁺ salts |
| Precipitation | Forms insoluble carbonates from Ho³⁺ solutions |
| Hydrolysis | Negligible in aqueous suspensions |
| Complex Formation | Forms complexes with various ligands |
Holmium Carbonate is a typical rare earth carbonate. Upon heating, it decomposes to holmium oxide (Ho₂O₃). It readily dissolves in acids to form holmium salts and is an important precursor for various holmium compounds used in optical and electronic applications.
Key Chemical Reactions:
Thermal Decomposition:
Ho₂(CO₃)₃ → Ho₂O₃ + 3CO₂↑ (~300-600°C)
Acid Dissolution:
Ho₂(CO₃)₃ + 6HCl → 2HoCl₃ + 3CO₂↑ + 3H₂O
Precipitation Reaction:
2Ho³⁺ + 3CO₃²⁻ → Ho₂(CO₃)₃ ↓
5. SPECIFICATIONS (TECHNICAL AND HIGH PURITY)
| Parameter | Technical Grade | High Purity |
|---|---|---|
| Purity (Ho₂(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 |
Holmium Carbonate is available in various grades from technical (≥ 99%) to high purity (≥ 99.99%). High purity grades are essential for optical, laser, and electronic applications where trace impurities significantly affect performance.
6. APPLICATIONS AND INDUSTRIAL USES
6.1. Holmium Oxide (Ho₂O₃) Production (Most Important Application)
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Primary Precursor | Thermal decomposition yields high-purity Ho₂O₃ |
| Catalyst Precursor | Used in catalyst preparation |
| Ceramic Materials | Used in advanced ceramic production |
Holmium Carbonate is the primary precursor for holmium oxide (Ho₂O₃) production. Upon heating, it decomposes to Ho₂O₃, which is used in catalysts, lasers, and ceramic applications.
6.2. Laser and Optical Applications
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Solid-State Lasers | Holmium-doped lasers (Ho:YAG, Ho:YLF) for medical and military applications |
| Optical Glasses | Used in specialty glass formulations for UV/IR transmission control |
| Laser Filters | Used in precision filter systems |
| Optical Materials | Used in various optical components |
| Spectroscopy | Used in spectroscopic applications |
Holmium compounds are critical for solid-state lasers operating at 2.1 microns (Ho:YAG) used in medical, military, and telecommunications applications. Holmium has one of the highest magnetic moments among all elements.
6.3. Catalyst Applications
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Catalyst Precursor | Precursor for holmium-based catalysts |
| Chemical Synthesis | Used in catalytic applications |
| Petrochemical | Used in certain catalytic processes |
6.4. Electronics and Vacuum Systems
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Sputtering Targets | Precursor for Ho₂O₃ sputtering targets |
| Thin Film Coatings | Used in vacuum deposition systems |
| Electronic Materials | Used in specialty electronic applications |
6.5. Nanotechnology
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Ho₂O₃ Nanoparticles | Source material for Ho₂O₃ nanoparticle production |
| Nanomaterials | Used in advanced nanomaterial synthesis |
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Holmium Oxide (Ho₂O₃) | Direct use in ceramics and optics | Already oxidized form |
| Holmium Hydroxide (Ho(OH)₃) | Alternative precursor for Ho₂O₃ | Different decomposition pathway |
| Holmium Nitrate (Ho(NO₃)₃) | Soluble holmium source | Water-soluble, easy processing |
| Lanthanide Carbonates (La₂(CO₃)₃, Ce₂(CO₃)₃) | Similar rare earth carbonate functions | Different optical and magnetic properties |
| Terbium Carbonate (Tb₂(CO₃)₃) | Alternative for phosphor applications | Different emission characteristics |
8. SECTOR SUITABILITY TABLE
| Sector / Application | Suitability | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Catalysts | Suitable | Ho₂O₃ catalyst production precursor |
| Optics & Lasers | High | Laser glasses and filter systems |
| Electronics | Suitable | Vacuum systems and sputtering targets |
| Nanotechnology | Suitable | Ho₂O₃ 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
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Holmium carbonate
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White carbonate powder
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Optical additive
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Holmium salt
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Holmium tricarbonate hydrate
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Rare earth carbonate
10. PRODUCTION PROCESS
| Stage | Description |
|---|---|
| Starting Material | Holmium-containing rare earth solutions or salts |
| Purification | Purification of holmium salt solution |
| Precipitation | Carbonate precipitation with sodium carbonate or ammonium bicarbonate |
| Reaction | 2Ho³⁺ + 3CO₃²⁻ → Ho₂(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:
2HoCl₃ + 3Na₂CO₃ → Ho₂(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: Holmium 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.
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. (Holmium carbonate) |
| Marine Pollutant | Yes |
| ADR/RID Label | 9 |
Holmium 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 |
| EINECS | Not commonly listed |
| Customs Tariff Code | 2836.99.00.00 |
Holmium 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:
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Avoid dust formation and inhalation
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Avoid skin and eye contact (use protective gloves and safety goggles)
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Use in well-ventilated areas
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Keep away from acids
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Prevent environmental release
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Due to high magnetic moment, may interfere with sensitive magnetic equipment
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 | Holmium oxides, CO₂ |
Holmium 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 holmium |
| Bastnäsite | Rare earth carbonate mineral |
| Holmium Chloride (HoCl₃) | Starting material for precipitation |
| Holmium Nitrate (Ho(NO₃)₃) | Alternative starting material |
| Sodium Carbonate (Na₂CO₃) | Precipitation agent |
18.2. Downstream Products
| Product | Application |
|---|---|
| Holmium Oxide (Ho₂O₃) | Catalysts, lasers, ceramics |
| Ho-Doped Laser Crystals | Ho:YAG, Ho:YLF for medical and military lasers |
| Holmium-Based Catalysts | Chemical synthesis, petrochemicals |
| Holmium-Doped Materials | Phosphors, optical amplifiers |
| Holmium Compounds | Various specialty applications |
19. QUALITY CONTROL PARAMETERS
| Parameter | Analytical Method | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Purity | Titration / ICP | Complexometric titration or ICP analysis |
| Holmium Content | Gravimetric / ICP | Determined as Ho₂O₃ |
| 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 Ho₂O₃ |
| Appearance | Visual | White powder |
| Particle Size | Laser Diffraction | Particle size distribution |
| Acid Solubility | Visual | Clear solution after acid dissolution |
20. SUMMARY AND CRITICAL WARNINGS
SUMMARY:
Holmium Carbonate Hydrate (Ho₂(CO₃)₃·xH₂O, CAS 38245-34-0) is a white, crystalline powder with a molecular weight of approximately 542 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 holmium oxide (Ho₂O₃). Holmium has one of the highest magnetic moments (10.6 µB) among all elements, making its compounds valuable for magnetic and laser applications.
Its most important application is as a precursor for holmium oxide (Ho₂O₃) used in catalysts, lasers, and ceramics. Holmium compounds are critical for solid-state lasers (Ho:YAG, Ho:YLF) operating at 2.1 microns for medical and military applications. It is also used in optical glasses, electronic applications, nanotechnology, and defense optics.
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 | Ho₂(CO₃)₃·xH₂O |
| Molecular Weight | ~542 g/mol (anhydrous) |
| CAS Number | 38245-34-0 |
| Density | ~4.8 g/cm³ |
| Decomposition Temperature | ~300-600°C (to Ho₂O₃) |
| Water Solubility | Insoluble |
| Magnetic Moment | 10.6 µB |
| Primary Use | Ho₂O₃ precursor, laser materials |
Major Application Areas:
| Sector | Applications |
|---|---|
| Optics & Lasers | Ho:YAG lasers, optical glasses, laser filters |
| Catalysts | Ho₂O₃ catalyst production |
| Electronics | Sputtering targets, thin films |
| Nanotechnology | Ho₂O₃ nanoparticles |
| Defense | Laser optics, optical filters |
Key Safety Points:
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ENVIRONMENTALLY HAZARDOUS: UN 3077
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IRRITANT: Skin, eye, and respiratory tract irritation
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STORAGE: Cool, dry, well-ventilated, away from acids
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PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT: Gloves, safety goggles, dust mask
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MAGNETIC PROPERTIES: May interfere with sensitive magnetic equipment
CRITICAL WARNINGS:
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LASER APPLICATIONS: Holmium is critical for 2.1-micron solid-state lasers (Ho:YAG, Ho:YLF) used in medical, military, and telecommunication applications. High purity (99.99% and above) is essential for laser crystal production.
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HIGH MAGNETIC MOMENT: Holmium has one of the highest magnetic moments (10.6 µB) among all elements, making its compounds valuable for magnetic materials research and applications. This property may interfere with sensitive magnetic equipment.
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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.
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PRECURSOR FOR Ho₂O₃: This compound is the primary precursor for holmium oxide production. The quality of the carbonate directly affects the properties of the final Ho₂O₃ product.
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CUSTOMS CLASSIFICATION: The correct customs tariff code is 2836.99.00.00.
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REGULATORY COMPLIANCE: REACH, KKDİK, and TSCA registration requirements apply. Not permitted for food, cosmetic, or pharmaceutical applications.
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HOLMIUM SUPPLY: Holmium is a heavy rare earth element with limited supply. Its compounds are valuable for specialized 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 Holmium Carbonate.
