What is Samarium Oxide (Sm₂O₃) Micron Powder?
Samarium Oxide (Sm₂O₃) micron powder is a finely milled rare-earth oxide powder composed of samarium and oxygen atoms. It is characterized by its chemical stability, high melting point, and distinctive optical, electrical, and magnetic properties, making it valuable in advanced materials and industrial applications.
Chemical Properties and CAS Number
- Chemical Formula: Sm₂O₃
- CAS Number: 12060-58-1
- Appearance: Pale yellowish-white powder
- Density: Approximately 8.35 g/cm³
- Melting Point: Approximately 2335°C
- Solubility: Insoluble in water, soluble in mineral acids
- Chemical Stability: Highly stable, resistant to moisture and atmospheric conditions
Applications of Samarium Oxide Micron Powder
1. Magnetic Materials
Used as a critical ingredient in manufacturing samarium-cobalt magnets, widely employed in high-performance motors, sensors, and magnetic refrigeration.
2. Ceramics and Glass
Employed in specialty ceramics, optical glass, and glass ceramics for its unique optical properties, enhancing strength and thermal resistance.
3. Phosphors and Luminescent Materials
Applied in phosphors and luminescent coatings for display screens, fluorescent lamps, and LEDs due to its unique luminescent properties.
4. Nuclear Industry
Used as neutron absorbers and control rods in nuclear reactors, benefiting from its high neutron absorption capacity.
5. Catalysts
Utilized as a catalyst or catalyst support in petrochemical and chemical industries, improving efficiency and selectivity of reactions.
5. Ceramics and Glass Industry
Employed in specialty glass formulations, ceramic capacitors, and refractory materials due to superior thermal and chemical stability.
Pricing of Samarium Oxide Micron Powder
Pricing varies significantly based on purity, particle size, and specific industry requirements:
- Industrial Grade: Approximately $100 – $500 per kilogram
- High-Purity/Specialized Grade: Prices range from $500 – $2,000 per kilogram, tailored for high-tech, electronic, and advanced nuclear applications.
Factors Influencing Samarium Oxide Prices
- Purity level and particle size
- Application-specific demands
- Processing and production methods
- Quantity and frequency of purchase
Conclusion
Samarium Oxide (Sm₂O₃) micron powder is a critical material with distinctive chemical, magnetic, and optical properties, widely employed in advanced technologies including magnetic devices, luminescent applications, ceramics, nuclear energy, and electronic components. Its specialized applications dictate the varying price structure based on purity, particle size, and intended use.