NdF3

NdF3, or neodymium(III) fluoride, is a white crystalline inorganic compound with the chemical formula NdF3. It is a rare-earth fluoride that is sparingly soluble in water and is typically stable in air. The compound is used as a starting material and dopant source in the preparation of fluoride-based optical materials.

Preparation and methods

NdF3 is commonly produced by fluorination of neodymium oxide or other neodymium-containing precursors with hydrogen fluoride or fluorine-containing gases at elevated temperatures. It can also be prepared by precipitation from neodymium salts followed by fluoride treatment. The resulting solid is typically purified for use in high-purity optical and materials-chemistry applications.

Structure and properties

NdF3 crystallizes in a structure related to other lanthanide trifluorides, and like most rare-earth fluorides it exhibits a high lattice energy and chemical stability. It has a high melting point and tends to decompose before melting rather than forming a simple melt. The compound is relatively inert toward many common reagents but reacts with water and moisture over time to form other neodymium-containing species and hydrofluoric acid under some conditions.

Applications

NdF3 serves as a precursor for synthesizing high-purity neodymium-containing fluoride crystals and powders used in optics and photonics. It is a common dopant source for fluoride glass and crystalline host materials employed in solid-state lasers and infrared optical components. Its role as a fluoride donor makes it valuable in research and commercial production of Nd-doped fluoride lattices and glasses.

Safety

Handling NdF3 requires standard inorganic-chemical safety practices. Dust and powders can be irritants; fluoride compounds can be hazardous if ingested or inhaled. Use appropriate personal protective equipment and store in a dry, well-ventilated area.