Erbium carbonate, owing to the unique 4f electronic configuration (4I15/2 ground state) of Er³⁺ and its thermal decomposition properties, serves as an ideal precursor for the preparation of near-infrared luminescent materials, laser crystals, and biological markers. Its pink crystalline form also facilitates process quality control.
Chemical properties
- Solubility: insoluble in water ( solubility at 25℃ < 0.001 g/100mL), soluble in dilute inorganic acids (HCl, HNO3) with evolution of CO
- Thermal behavior: gradual dehydration → decomposition into erbia (TGA shows three stages of weight loss)
- Acid-alkalinity: water suspension pH ≈ 6.5-7.5
- Optical properties: Characteristic absorption at 980nm (corresponding to the3+of4I15/2→4I11/2transition)
Application fields
Optical materials
- Fiber amplifier: preparation of Er3+doped fiber (C band 1530-1565nm)
- Up-conversion luminescence: Synthesis of NaYF4:Er3+ materials (980nm→visible light conversion)
- Laser crystal: YSGG:Er3+Raw materials for lasers (emits 8μm mid-infrared laser)
Bomedical
- Fluorescent label: Er3+Complexes for cell imaging
- Temperature sensing:Based on Er3+Nano probe with thermal coupling energy levels
Special ceramics
- Dielectric materials: preparation of Er2O3doped barium titanate ceramics
- Heat Barrier Coating: Precursor of Coating Material for Aviation Engine
