TeO3

TeO3, or tellurium trioxide, is a chemical compound consisting of tellurium and oxygen with the formula TeO3. It is one of the oxides of tellurium and features tellurium in the +6 oxidation state. In the solid state, TeO3 exists primarily as a polymeric oxide in which tellurium centers are linked through oxide ligands; the exact structure varies with preparation conditions.

Preparation and occurrence: TeO3 is obtained by oxidation of TeO2 under strongly oxidizing conditions or by dehydration of telluric acid under carefully controlled temperature. It is typically a high-melting solid and is sensitive to hydrolysis in the presence of moisture, forming tellurate species and/or hydrated oxides.

Reactions: TeO3 can act as a source of Te(VI) for the synthesis of tellurate salts and related oxoanions. It may be used in inorganic syntheses as a starting material to prepare esters and oxo-bridged tellurium compounds, though its use is mainly academic.

Applications: The material is primarily of interest to researchers studying tellurium chemistry and oxoanions; it is not a widely used industrial reagent.

Safety: Tellurium and its compounds can be toxic; TeO3 should be handled with appropriate protective equipment, in a fume hood, with avoidance of inhalation and ingestion. Dispose of waste according to local regulations.