teoxide

Teoxide is a general term for chemical compounds that contain tellurium bonded to oxygen, i.e., oxides of tellurium with various TeOx stoichiometries. The best-characterized members are tellurium(IV) oxide (TeO2) and tellurium(VI) oxide (TeO3). In many solid forms, TeOx species are polymeric networks rather than discrete molecules; TeO2 is the most stable and widely studied oxide of tellurium under ordinary conditions.

Preparation and interconversion: TeO2 is typically prepared by oxidation of tellurium metal in air or by oxidation of tellurite salts. TeO3 is less stable and tends to decompose to TeO2 with the release of oxygen upon heating; it can appear transiently under strong oxidative conditions.

Properties: TeO2 is a white to pale yellow solid with limited solubility in water. It serves as a starting material for the synthesis of other tellurium compounds and is used in some optical and glass applications. TeOx materials that include higher oxidation states often form polymeric structures and their properties are highly dependent on the synthesis method and conditions.

Applications: The most notable use of TeO2 is in infrared optics and acousto-optic devices, where crystalline TeO2 enables modulation of light by acoustic waves. TeOx materials are also investigated as catalysts, glass additives, and precursors to other tellurium compounds.

Safety: Tellurium and its oxides are toxic; exposure should be minimized and handled with appropriate protective measures and engineering controls.