Y2O3

Yttrium oxide, Y2O3, also known as yttria, is a white crystalline compound and one of the principal oxides of yttrium. It is a rare-earth oxide commonly used as a host material for dopants in luminescent applications. At room temperature it adopts the cubic bixbyite crystal structure and has a very high melting point, reflecting its refractory nature. It is insoluble in water and relatively resistant to acids and bases, properties that make it useful in high-temperature and optical applications.

Production and sources are industrially based on yttrium-containing minerals such as monazite and xenotime. Y2O3 is obtained by calcination of yttrium compounds (for example hydroxide, oxalate, or nitrate) followed by purification steps to remove impurities. The oxide produced is typically converted into powders or precursors used in ceramic and optical industries.

Major applications of Y2O3 include its use as a host lattice for rare-earth dopants in phosphors and lasers. When doped with europium, terbium, cerium, or other rare-earth ions, yttria-based materials exhibit efficient luminescence. Y2O3 is also a key component in yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ), where small amounts of Y2O3 stabilize the zirconia phase to produce a tough, high-temperature ceramic used in oxygen sensors, thermal barrier coatings, and dental implants. Additionally, it serves as a sintering aid and refractive additive in ceramics and glass and as a catalyst support in certain chemical processes.

Safety considerations are modest; Y2O3 is of low acute toxicity, but inhalation of dust should be minimized and appropriate protective equipment used during handling.