CAS 12032-20-1 Lutetium (III) oxide - Catalysts / Alfa Chemistry

Application

Lutetium(III) oxide, often referred to as lutecia, is a rare earth metal oxide available in white powder form and possessing a cubic crystal structure. This compound is notable for its exceptional physical properties, including a high melting point of approximately 2400°C, phase stability, mechanical strength, hardness, significant thermal conductivity, and low thermal expansion. These characteristics make Lutetium(III) oxide an ideal candidate for various applications. It is used as a crucial raw material in the production of laser crystals and serves specialized functions in ceramics, glass, and phosphor manufacturing. Lutetium(III) oxide's wide bandgap of 5.2-5.5 eV and high-κ dielectric constant (κ=11-13) enable its use in scintillators and activators, which are essential for high-density applications. Additionally, its catalytic properties are exploited in reactions like cracking, alkylation, hydrogenation, and polymerization. Moreover, due to its hygroscopic nature and ability to absorb carbon dioxide, Lutetium(III) oxide finds utility in environments where CO2 removal is critical. Its luminescent qualities hold promise for further research and potential use in biological fields.