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Erbium Metal, Metallic Erbium, Elemental Erbium, 7440-52-0

Erbium Metal, Metallic Erbium, Elemental Erbium, 7440-52-0

ERBIUM METAL (ERBIUM METAL / METALLIC ERBIUM)

PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION INFORMATION

Parameter Information
Product Name Erbium Metal / Erbium Metal
Other Technical Names Erbium Metal, Metallic Erbium, Elemental Erbium
CAS Number 7440-52-0
Chemical Symbol Er
Atomic Number 68
Atomic Weight 167.26 g/mol
Product Family Rare Earth Element (Lanthanide Series)
Appearance Silver-grey, bright metal

CHEMICAL STRUCTURE

    Erbium Metal (Er)
    
    Hexagonal Close Packed (HCP) Crystal Structure
    
         Er  Er  Er  Er
           \  |  /  |
            Er Er Er Er
           /  |  \  |
         Er  Er  Er  Er
    
    Hexagonal Close Packed (HCP) Crystal Structure
    Rare Earth Metal
    Paramagnetic Property
    Strong Absorption in Infrared Region
    Used in Fiber Optic and Laser Applications

Molecular Formula: Er (Elemental)
Crystal Structure: Hexagonal Close Packed (HCP)
Electron Configuration: [Xe] 4f¹² 6s²
Oxidation States: +3 (primarily)
Magnetic Property: Paramagnetic
Stability: Stable in air in bulk form; fine powder form may oxidize

SECTION 1: CHEMICAL IDENTITY AND DEFINITION

Parameter Information
Product Name Erbium Metal / Erbium Metal
Other Technical Names (English) Erbium Metal, Metallic Erbium, Elemental Erbium
Other Technical Names (Turkish) Erbiyum Metali
Other Technical Names (German) Erbium Metall
Other Technical Names (French) Métal d'Erbium
Other Technical Names (Spanish) Metal de Erbio
CAS Number 7440-52-0
Chemical Symbol Er
Atomic Number 68
Atomic Weight 167.26 g/mol
Chemical Class Rare Earth Element; Lanthanide Series
Crystal Structure Hexagonal Close Packed (HCP)
Electron Configuration [Xe] 4f¹² 6s²
Oxidation States +3 (primarily)
Appearance Silver-grey, bright metal
Odor Odorless
Color Silver-grey
Luster High metallic luster
Magnetic Properties Paramagnetic

SECTION 2: PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

Property Value Test Method / Note
Appearance Silver-grey, bright metal Visual
Atomic Weight 167.26 g/mol Calculated
Density (20°C) Approximately 9.07 g/cm³ ASTM D792
Melting Point 1529°C DSC
Boiling Point 2868°C -
Hardness (Mohs) Approximately 2.5-3.0 Mohs Scale
Hardness (Brinell) Approximately 30 HB ASTM E10
Electrical Conductivity Approximately 1.17 × 10⁶ S/m -
Thermal Conductivity Approximately 14.5 W/m·K -
Specific Heat (25°C) Approximately 0.17 J/g·K -
Electrical Resistivity Approximately 86 × 10⁻⁸ Ω·m -
Thermal Expansion Coefficient Approximately 12.2 × 10⁻⁶ /°C -
Corrosion Resistance Good in bulk form; Powder form may oxidize -
Magnetic Properties Paramagnetic -
Optical Property Strong absorption in infrared region Critical for fiber optic applications
Durability Stable in air in bulk form -

SECTION 3: CHEMICAL PROPERTIES AND REACTIVITY

Parameter Information
Chemical Character Rare earth metal; lanthanide series; paramagnetic; strong absorption in infrared region; stable in air in bulk form
Stability Stable in air in bulk form; Fine powder form may oxidize; Stable under normal conditions
Reactivity Oxidizes slowly; Reacts with acids; Reacts with halogens; Oxidizes at high temperatures
Incompatible Materials Strong acids, halogens, oxidizing agents, moisture (for powder form)
Oxidation 4Er + 3O₂ → 2Er₂O₃ (slow oxidation)
Acid Reaction 2Er + 6HCl → 2ErCl₃ + 3H₂ (reacts with acids)
Halogen Reaction 2Er + 3F₂ → 2ErF₃ (reacts with halogens)
Optical Property Strong absorption in infrared region; Emission at 1.5 µm wavelength
Special Property Used in erbium-doped fiber amplifiers (EDFA); Critical for long-distance communication

SECTION 4: RARE EARTH ELEMENT COMPARISON TABLE

Property Erbium (Er) Terbium (Tb) Holmium (Ho) Explanation
Atomic Number 68 65 67 Lanthanide series
Atomic Weight 167.26 158.93 164.93 -
Density (g/cm³) 9.07 8.23 8.79 -
Melting Point (°C) 1529 1356 1461 -
Electron Configuration [Xe] 4f¹² 6s² [Xe] 4f⁹ 6s² [Xe] 4f¹¹ 6s² -
Oxidation States +3 +3, +4 +3 -
Optical Property Infrared (1.5 µm) Green Green-blue Erbium critical for telecom
Primary Use Fiber optics, laser Phosphors, nuclear Laser, magnetic -

SECTION 5: ERBIUM METAL GRADES

Grade Purity (%) Form Application Areas
Er-1 ≥ 99.99% Piece, ingot Fiber optics, high-purity research
Er-2 ≥ 99.9% Piece, ingot Laser applications, optoelectronics
Er-3 ≥ 99.5% Piece, ingot Metallurgy, alloys
Er-Distilled ≥ 99.99% Distilled pieces Optical coatings, special applications

SECTION 6: FUNCTIONAL PROPERTIES AND MECHANISM OF ACTION

Property Explanation
Rare Earth Element Belongs to the lanthanide series. Has 4f¹² 6s² electron configuration.
Magnetic Property Exhibits paramagnetic behavior. Shows magnetic properties due to unpaired 4f electrons.
Optical Property Strong absorption in infrared region. Emission at 1.5 µm wavelength. This is critical for telecommunications.
Durability Stable in air in bulk form. Fine powder form may oxidize.
Laser Emission Erbium ions provide laser emission at 1.5 µm wavelength. This is in the eye-safe region.
Neutron Absorption Has neutron absorption property. Valuable for nuclear applications.

SECTION 7: MAIN APPLICATION AREAS

Industry / Application Function Typical Use
Telecommunications Optical amplification Used in erbium-doped fiber amplifiers (EDFA). Provides signal amplification in long-distance internet and telephone lines.
Laser Technology Laser generation Used in solid-state lasers. Ideal for medical applications (surgery, dermatology) and industrial applications (cutting, drilling).
Glass and Ceramics Coloring and protection Used in special glasses to give pink color. Has UV blocking properties.
Nuclear Technology Neutron absorption Used in reactor control rods due to neutron absorption properties.
Metallurgy Alloy additive Used as durability and performance enhancer in alloys.
Optical Coatings Thin film coating Used as coating material in optical components.
Medical Imaging Imaging agents Used in some medical imaging applications.

SECTION 8: ERBIUM-DOPED FIBER AMPLIFIER (EDFA) - DETAILED EXPLANATION

Parameter Explanation
Operating Principle Erbium ions (Er³⁺) are excited by laser diode; Provides emission at 1.5 µm wavelength
Wavelength 1.5 µm (1550 nm) - Ideal for optical communication; Lowest fiber loss region
Advantages Long-distance signal transmission; Signal amplification; No electronic conversion required
Application Areas Internet backbone; Submarine communication cables; Satellite communication; Telephone lines
Importance Fundamental component of modern telecommunication infrastructure

SECTION 9: QUALITY SPECIFICATIONS (ER-1 GRADE – ≥99.99%)

Parameter Specification Test Method
Appearance Silver-grey, bright metal Visual
Purity (Er) ≥ 99.99% AAS / ICP / GDMS
Oxygen (O) ≤ 0.05% LECO / Inert Gas Fusion
Nitrogen (N) ≤ 0.02% LECO / Inert Gas Fusion
Carbon (C) ≤ 0.02% Combustion / ICP
Iron (Fe) ≤ 0.01% AAS / ICP / GDMS
Silicon (Si) ≤ 0.01% AAS / ICP / GDMS
Aluminum (Al) ≤ 0.005% AAS / ICP / GDMS
Calcium (Ca) ≤ 0.01% AAS / ICP / GDMS
Magnesium (Mg) ≤ 0.005% AAS / ICP / GDMS
Other Rare Earths ≤ 0.01% ICP / GDMS
Form Piece, ingot Visual
Packaging In sealed containers -

SECTION 10: TOXICOLOGICAL PROFILE

Parameter Value
Acute Oral Toxicity Low toxicity (metallic form)
Acute Inhalation Toxicity Dust inhalation may cause irritation
Skin Irritation Metallic form is not irritating
Eye Irritation Metallic form is not irritating
Chronic Toxicity Rare earth compounds may show health effects with prolonged exposure
Carcinogenicity Not classified as carcinogenic
Mutagenicity Not classified as mutagenic
Target Organs Respiratory system (dust irritation)
Occupational Exposure Limit (8h TWA) 2.5 mg/m³ (rare earths, total dust)
Special Toxicity Note Metallic erbium has low toxicity in solid form; Fine dust may cause respiratory irritation; Appropriate dust control measures should be used

SECTION 11: GHS CLASSIFICATION AND LABELING

GHS Classification (in compliance with CLP and UN GHS):

Hazard Class Category H-Statement
Generally not classified as hazardous - -
STOT - SE (Single Exposure) Category 3 H335 (optional)

Note: Not classified as hazardous in solid state. Fine powder form may cause respiratory irritation.

Signal Word: Signal word not required (not dangerous) or WARNING (optional)

Hazard Pictograms: GHS07 (optional)

Hazard Statements (H-Codes) - if classified:

Code Statement
H335 May cause respiratory irritation

NFPA 704 Hazard Classification:

Health Flammability Reactivity Special
0 0 0 -
(Minimal health hazard) (Not flammable) (Stable) (None)

SECTION 12: PRECAUTIONARY STATEMENTS (P-CODES)

Code Statement
P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapors/spray
P264 Wash hands thoroughly after handling
P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area
P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection
P304+P340 IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing
P312 Call a POISON CENTER/doctor if you feel unwell
P362+P364 Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse
P403+P233 Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed
P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local/regional/national/international regulations

SECTION 13: FIRST AID MEASURES

Exposure Route Action to Take
Inhalation Move to fresh air immediately. Keep at rest in a position comfortable for breathing. If symptoms persist, get medical attention.
Skin Contact Wash with plenty of soap and water. Remove contaminated clothing. If skin irritation occurs, get medical advice/attention.
Eye Contact Rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Keep eyelids open. Remove contact lenses. Continue rinsing. If eye irritation persists, get medical advice/attention.
Ingestion Rinse mouth with water. Do NOT induce vomiting. Drink plenty of water. If symptoms develop, get medical attention.

SECTION 14: FIRE-FIGHTING MEASURES

Parameter Information
Fire Hazard Not flammable (ingot). Flammable in dust form.
Hazards During Fire May release erbium oxide fumes at high temperatures
Suitable Extinguishing Media Dry chemical powder, CO₂, sand
Unsuitable Extinguishing Media Water (for dust)
Special Protective Equipment Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), full protective clothing
Special Precautions Prevent dust from entering sewers and waterways; Do not inhale fumes

SECTION 15: STORAGE AND SHELF LIFE

Parameter Information
Storage Conditions Away from moisture and oxidizing agents in closed containers; Cool, dry, well-ventilated area
Container Requirements Keep in original packaging, dry containers; Protect from corrosion
Materials to Protect From Strong acids, halogens, oxidizing agents, moisture (for powder form)
Shelf Life Unlimited (under proper storage conditions)
Stability Note Stable in air in bulk form; Powder form may oxidize; Protect from moisture

SECTION 16: PACKAGING OPTIONS

Packaging Type Quantity Material
Plastic Drum 25-50 kg HDPE
Steel Drum 100-500 kg Corrosion-resistant lined steel
Wooden Crate 50-200 kg Wooden crate (with inner lining)
Steel Case 50-200 kg Steel case
Pallet 500-1000 kg Steel pallet
Bulk Custom quantities Container

SECTION 17: TRANSPORT INFORMATION

Parameter Information
UN Number Not regulated (not dangerous)
Hazard Class Not applicable
Packing Group Not applicable
ADR/RID Not regulated
IMDG Code Not regulated
IATA (Air) Not regulated
Marine Pollutant No
Transport Temperature Ambient temperature; Protect from moisture

SECTION 18: OTHER NAMES AND SYNONYMS

Type Name
Turkish Names Erbiyum Metali
English Names Erbium Metal, Metallic Erbium, Elemental Erbium
German Names Erbium Metall
French Names Métal d'Erbium
Spanish Names Metal de Erbio
Chemical Names Erbium (elemental form); Erbium metal
CAS Number 7440-52-0
Atomic Symbol Er
Atomic Number 68

SECTION 19: SUMMARY TABLE

Parameter Value
Product Erbium Metal (Erbium Metal)
CAS Number 7440-52-0
Atomic Number 68
Atomic Weight 167.26 g/mol
Appearance Silver-grey, bright metal
Density Approximately 9.07 g/cm³
Melting Point 1529°C
Boiling Point 2868°C
Hardness (Mohs) Approximately 2.5-3.0
Crystal Structure Hexagonal Close Packed (HCP)
Primary Function Rare earth metal; optical amplification; laser generation
Main Applications Telecommunications (EDFA), laser technology, glass and ceramics, nuclear technology, metallurgy
Shelf Life Unlimited
GHS Signal Word Signal word not required (not dangerous)
UN Number Not regulated
Special Features Strong absorption in infrared region (1.5 µm); Critical for fiber optics; Paramagnetic

SECTION 20: CRITICAL WARNINGS AND BEST PRACTICES

CRITICAL WARNINGS:

  1. Stable in air in bulk form but fine powder form may oxidize. Avoid dust formation.

  2. Not flammable (ingot). Flammable in dust form.

  3. Strong absorption in infrared region is critical for fiber optic applications.

  4. Paramagnetic behavior. Should be considered in magnetic applications.

  5. Rare earth element requires special handling and purity.

  6. Optical properties are affected by purity. Appropriate grade should be selected for high-purity applications.

  7. Incompatibilities: Strong acids, halogens, oxidizing agents, moisture (for powder form).

  8. Hygiene Requirement: Wash hands thoroughly after use.

BEST PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS:

9. Telecommunications Applications:
Use high-purity (≥99.99%) Er-1 grade for erbium-doped fiber amplifiers (EDFA). Maintain signal quality in long-distance communication lines.

10. Laser Applications:
Select appropriate grade for solid-state lasers. Provide correct wavelength (1.5 µm) for medical and industrial laser applications.

11. Glass and Ceramics Applications:
Use erbium in special glasses for pink color and UV protection. Provide appropriate doping ratios.

12. Nuclear Applications:
Use in reactor control rods for neutron absorption property. Ensure proper certification.

13. Metallurgy Applications:
Use as durability and performance enhancer in alloys. Alloy at appropriate ratios.

14. Use:
Use in well-ventilated areas; Avoid dust formation; Wear protective gloves, safety goggles and appropriate respiratory protection.

15. Personal Protective Equipment:
Use safety goggles, protective clothing, protective gloves (nitrile, neoprene), NIOSH approved dust mask (if dust is present).

16. Hygiene:
Do not eat, drink or smoke while using; Wash hands thoroughly after use; Do not take contaminated work clothes home.

17. Storage:
Store in cool, dry, well-ventilated area; Protect from moisture and oxidizing agents; Keep in closed containers.

18. Spill Response:
Avoid dust formation; Vacuum or sweep; Place in closed containers; Do not allow to enter drains or waterways.

19. Disposal:
Dispose in accordance with local, regional and national regulations; Contact licensed waste disposal services for rare earth metals.

20. Purity Requirements:
Select the correct purity grade according to the application. High purity (≥99.99%) is required for optical applications.

ERBIUM APPLICATION SELECTION GUIDE:

Application Recommended Grade Explanation
Fiber optic amplifier (EDFA) Er-1 (≥99.99%) Optical purity is critical
Laser technology Er-1 (≥99.99%) or Er-2 (≥99.9%) Depends on application
Glass and ceramics Er-2 (≥99.9%) Economic solution
Nuclear applications Er-1 (≥99.99%) Requires high purity
Metallurgy alloys Er-3 (≥99.5%) Economic solution

RECOMMENDED STORAGE CONDITIONS:

Parameter Requirement
Storage Temperature Room temperature (15-25°C)
Atmosphere Normal atmosphere (for bulk); Inert atmosphere (for powder)
Humidity <60% relative humidity
Container Sealed containers
Location Cool, dry, well-ventilated area, separate from incompatible materials

LEGAL DISCLAIMER:

The information provided in this document is based on our current knowledge and experience and is provided in good faith; however, since all conditions of use are beyond our control, it does not constitute a binding specification or warranty. This Technical Data Sheet is for informational purposes only. Users are responsible for testing suitability for their own applications. For complete safety, storage, use, handling, disposal and regulatory compliance information, reference should be made to the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier.

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