NdOH3

NdOH3, more commonly written Nd(OH)3, is the hydroxide of the element neodymium, a member of the lanthanide series. In its solid form it is typically a pale green to white powder and is sparingly soluble in water. In practice, the compound is encountered as a hydrated solid, often represented as Nd(OH)3·nH2O, depending on preparation and storage conditions.

Preparation and occurrence

Nd(OH)3 can be prepared by neutralizing an aqueous neodymium salt with a base, for example Nd(NO3)3 + 3 NaOH → Nd(OH)3↓ + 3 NaNO3. The precipitated Nd(OH)3 is then filtered and dried. It may also form by hydrolysis of Nd3+ in basic media. For many applications, Nd(OH)3 is used as a precursor to other neodymium compounds.

Properties

Nd(OH)3 is a basic metal hydroxide with low solubility in water. It reacts with acids to give neodymium salts, e.g., Nd(OH)3 + 3 HCl → NdCl3 + 3 H2O. Upon heating, Nd(OH)3 dehydrates to form neodymium oxide: 2 Nd(OH)3 → Nd2O3 + 3 H2O, a decomposition that occurs on heating to elevated temperatures (dehydration temperatures depend on hydration and preparation).

Applications

Nd(OH)3 is primarily used as a convenient precursor to Nd2O3 and other neodymium-containing materials. Through conversion to Nd2O3, it serves as a starting point for synthesizing Nd-doped glasses, ceramics, and various Nd-containing compounds used in research and industry, including laser-active materials when incorporated into host matrices.

Safety

Neodymium compounds can be irritants to skin and eyes and may pose inhalation hazards in powdered form. Appropriate handling, ventilation, and personal protective equipment are recommended.