galliumcontaining

Gallium-containing refers to any chemical compound or material that includes gallium (Ga) as part of its composition. Gallium is a post-transition metal with a low melting point of about 29.8°C; it is typically found in oxidation state +3 in compounds and can form a range of inorganic and organometallic species as well as alloys. Gallium-containing substances are widespread in modern technology, especially in electronics and photonics.

Common gallium-containing materials include binary and complex inorganic compounds such as gallium arsenide (GaAs), gallium nitride (GaN), and gallium oxide (Ga2O3). These materials are valued for wide band gaps, high breakdown voltages, and favorable electrical properties, enabling applications in high-speed electronics, LEDs, and power devices. Organogallium compounds, where gallium is bonded to carbon, are important as precursors in metalorganic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) and other synthesis routes. Alloys such as the gallium-containing galinstan (a eutectic of gallium, indium, and tin) are used in low-melting applications and as liquid metals. Gallium is also recovered as a byproduct of bauxite and zinc processing.

Applications and performance depend on the specific gallium compound or alloy, with roles in semiconductors, optoelectronics, catalysis, and research. In nuclear medicine, radioactive isotopes of gallium (for example, Ga-67, Ga-68) are used in imaging and diagnostics. Sustainability and safety considerations focus on handling of gallium compounds, as some can be hazardous or irritant, and appropriate containment and disposal practices are followed.

See also: gallium, gallium arsenide, gallium nitride, gallium oxide.