Erbium Oxide
Erbium Oxide (Er₂O₃) – Physicochemical Properties
| Chemical Formula: | Er₂O₃ |
| CAS Number: | 12061-16-4 |
| Appearance: | Pink powder |
| Purity Grades: | 3N (99.9%), 4N (99.99%), 5N (99.999%) |
| Density: | 8.64 g/cm³ |
| Melting Point: | 2344 °C |
| Solubility: | Insoluble in water; slightly soluble in acids |
| Stability: | Chemically stable in air, slightly hygroscopic; store sealed in a cool, dry place |
| Items | Specifications | Typical Analyses | Analytical Instruments | ||||
| Symbol | UMEO2N | UMEO2N5 | UMEO3N | UMEO3N5 | UMEO4N | ||
| REO % | ≥99 | ≥99 | ≥99 | ≥99 | ≥99.99 | ||
| Purity and relative RE impurities | |||||||
| Er₂O₃/REO % | ≥99.00 | ≥99.50 | ≥99.90 | ≥99.95 | ≥99.99 | ||
| Tb₄O₇/REO % | ≤0.001 | Content≤ 0.05 in total | Content≤ 0.1in total | Content≤ 0.5 in total | <0.0001 | ≤0.001 | ① |
| Dy₂O₃/REO % | ≤0.001 | <0.0001 | ≤0.001 | ① | |||
| Ho₂O₃/REO % | ≤0.001 | <0.0001 | ≤0.001 | ① | |||
| Tm₂O₃/REO % | ≤0.002 | 0.0025 | ≤0.002 | ① | |||
| Yb₂O₃/REO % | ≤0.003 | 0.0015 | ≤0.003 | ① | |||
| Y2O₃/REO % | ≤0.002 | 0.0014 | ≤0.002 | ① | |||
| Non-RE impurity | |||||||
| Fe₂O₃ % | ≤0.0005 | ≤0.001 | ≤0.001 | ≤0.005 | <0.0005 | ≤0.0005 | ② |
| SiO₂ % | ≤0.003 | ≤0.005 | ≤0.005 | ≤0.01 | <0.0015 | ≤0.003 | |
| CaO % | ≤0.0015 | ≤0.0015 | ≤0.02 | ≤0.05 | <0.002 | ≤0.0015 | ② |
| CuO % | ≤0.001 | ≤0.002 | ≤0.005 | ≤0.005 | ≤0.001 | ② | |
| CL- % | ≤0.02 | ≤0.02 | ≤0.03 | ≤0.03 | <0.005 | ≤0.02 | |
| Loss on Ignition (1000℃,1hour)% | ≤1 | ≤1 | ≤1 | ≤1 | ≤1 | ||
Notes:
① ICP-AES - Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometer
② PE-3100 - Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer
What are the Applications & Specific Uses of Erbium Oxide?
1. Optical Fiber Communication
Erbium oxide is the core dopant for erbium-doped fiber (EDF). Leveraging its optical amplification at 1550 nm, it is used to manufacture erbium-doped fiber amplifiers (EDFA), supporting long-haul, high-capacity optical communication systems.
2. Laser Materials
Used to produce erbium-doped YAG laser crystals and erbium-doped glass lasers, emitting around 1.5 μm (eye-safe band). Widely applied in medical surgery (skin repair, dental treatment), aesthetics (spot removal, skin rejuvenation), scientific research and industrial marking.
3. Optical & Infrared Components
Used in infrared filters, anti-reflection coatings, night-vision optics and laser-protective glass. Utilizes its characteristic infrared absorption and transmission to enhance optical device performance and safety.
4. Glass & Ceramic Coloring
A premium rose/sakura-pink colorant for art glass, high-grade ceramic glazes and synthetic gemstones. Delivers stable, soft coloration with excellent heat resistance, unaffected by kiln atmosphere variations.
5. Luminescent Materials & Phosphors
Used in up-conversion phosphors that convert infrared light into visible light. Applied in anti-counterfeiting labels, optical displays and biological labeling; a key component of rare earth luminescent materials.
6. Special Alloys
Added to magnesium, aluminum and other high-performance alloys to significantly improve strength, heat resistance and corrosion resistance. Used in aerospace, automotive and other advanced engineering sectors.
7. Catalysis & Fine Chemicals
Serves as a promoter or additive for petroleum cracking, automotive exhaust purification and organic synthesis catalysts, enhancing activity and selectivity. Shows potential in green chemistry and environmental applications.
Storage, Transportation & Handling Precautions
Store powder sealed, cool, dry and away from light; keep relative humidity below 40% to avoid moisture and CO₂ absorption.
Wear a dust mask and goggles during handling to prevent inhalation.
Use airtight glass, ceramic or plastic-lined containers.
Avoid prolonged contact with reactive metals.