Jul 10 2013
In the recent years scientists have intensified their research in the field of nanoparticles mainly due to the innovative and unexpected results that are achieved through altering of the atomic and molecular properties of various elements. Nanoparticles have found their uses in the field of bio technology, drug delivery, optics and electronics.
Yttrium oxide (Y2O3) nanoparticle is an air-stable, solid substance white in color. It is used in the field of material sciences, to make phosphors that are used in imparting the red color of the picture tubes in televisions. Another major use of the yttrium oxide nanoparticles is in inorganic synthesis. Yttrium belongs to Block D, Period 5 and oxygen belongs to the Block P, Period 2 in the periodic table.
Chemical Properties
The chemical properties of yttrium oxide are given in the table below.
| Chemical Data |
| Chemical symbol |
Y2O3 |
| CAS No |
1314-36-9 |
| Group |
Yttrium 3
Oxygen 16 |
| Electronic configuration |
Yttrium Kr 4d1 5s2
Oxygen 1s2 2s2 2p4 |
| Chemical Composition |
| Element |
Content (%) |
| Yttrium |
78.7 |
| Oxygen |
21.1 |
Physical Properties
Yttrium oxide appears in the form of a white powder with spherical morphology.
The physical properties of yttrium oxide are provided in the table below.
| Properties |
Metric |
Imperial |
| Density |
5.01 g/mL |
0.180 lb/in3 |
| Molecular Weight |
225.81 |
- |
Thermal Properties
The following are the thermal properties of yttrium oxide.
| Properties |
Metric |
Imperial |
| Melting Point |
2410°C |
4370°F |
Manufacturing
Yttrium oxide is derived from yttrium hydroxide. The manufacturing process involves the heat treatment of yttrium hydroxide that is grown cathodically.
Applications
Given below are some of the chief applications of yttrium oxide nanoparticles.
- In the field of materials science these particles find a number of applications such as imparting colour to the television picture tubes. Also used in making of plasma and flat panel displays.
- Yttrium iron garnets which are derived from yttrium oxide are used as powerful microwave filters.
- Yttrium oxide is a vital starting point in inorganic synthesis of compounds.
- The property of red light emission is used in making fluorescent lamps.
- They are also used as additives in the coatings used in high-temperature applications, paints and plastics for guarding against UV degradation and also in making permanent magnets.
- In ultrafast sensors that are used in g-ray and x-rays.
- Some of the other applications include additives in steel, non-ferrous alloys and iron.
Source: AZoNano