Gadolinium Oxide (CAS 12064-62-9)

Gadolinium oxide (CAS 12064-62-9) is a compound of the rare earth element Gd with the formula Gd₂O₃. White or beige powder, thermally stable, slightly soluble in water. It is used in magnetic and optical materials, phosphors and nuclear power engineering.

1. Definition and general characteristics
Gadolinium oxide (Gd₂O₃) is an inorganic compound belonging to the group of lanthanide oxides. It has paramagnetic properties and is used where special spectral or magnetic characteristics are important.

CAS: 12064-62-9
Synonyms: Gadolinium(III) oxide, Gadolinium sesquioxide, Gadolinium oxide

2. Chemical formula and properties
Molecular formula: Gd₂O₃
Appearance: white or light yellow powder
Smell: none
Density: ~7.40 g/cm³
Melting point: about 2330 °C
Boiling point: sublimation above ~4200 °C
Flash point: non-flammable
Solubility: slightly soluble in water, but soluble in acids (HCl, HNO₃)
Decomposition: at extremely high temperatures may partially transform into gaseous oxides
Storage conditions: dry, sealed packaging that protects against contamination
Stability: chemically stable under normal conditions

3. Application
Magnetic materials: additive to alloys and coatings for electronics.
Luminophores: activator in compositions that impart certain spectral lines to radiation.
Nuclear power: gadolinium is known as a neutron absorber; the oxide is used to make absorber rods.
Glass and ceramics: improves optical and mechanical properties.

4. Impact on health and the environment
Toxicity: low under normal conditions, but gadolinium oxide dust can irritate the respiratory tract.
Ecology: rare earth minerals require rational extraction and disposal due to their rarity.

5. Conclusion
Gadolinium oxide (Gd₂O₃) is a strategically important high-tech product. Its unique magnetic, luminescent and neutron-absorbing properties have allowed it to occupy a significant place in nuclear power, electronics and the production of functional materials.