High-Purity Europium Oxide for Display Phosphors and Nuclear Applications

Overview

Europium Oxide (Eu₂O₃) is a red-pink powder renowned for its role as the primary source of Eu³+ ions in optoelectronic devices and nuclear materials. With a CAS number of 1308-96-9 and a molecular weight of 351.92 g/mol, this rare-earth oxide offers purity levels of 99.9%-99.99% (4N), featuring a melting point of 2050°C and a density of 7.42 g/cm³. Its strong red fluorescence under UV excitation and high neutron absorption cross-section make it indispensable in displays, sensors, and nuclear reactors.

Features

1. Intense Red Emission: Eu³+ ions exhibit sharp emission peaks at 590 nm (magnetic dipole) and 613 nm (electric dipole), critical for saturated red color in display technologies.

2. Nuclear Cross-Section: High thermal neutron absorption (4500 barns) makes it suitable for control rod materials in pressurized water reactors.

3. Thermal Stability: Maintains luminescent efficiency up to 1500°C, ideal for high-temperature phosphor applications in halogen lamps and projection systems.

4. Controlled Crystallinity: Available in cubic (fluorite structure) and monoclinic forms, enabling compatibility with yttrium and gadolinium oxides in composite systems.

5. Ultra-Low Impurities: Strict purification reduces cerium and terbium levels to <0.01%, ensuring pure red emission without spectral contamination.

Applications

• LED & LCD Displays: Core component in red phosphors for white LED lighting (e.g., YAG:Eu³+) and quantum dot displays, contributing to wide color gamut (Rec. 2020 compliance).

• Nuclear Safety: Used in burnable poisons (e.g., Eu2O3-doped UO2 pellets) to absorb excess neutrons in reactor cores, controlling power distribution during operation.

• Optical Filters: Deposited as thin films on solar concentrators to reflect UV light while transmitting visible and NIR radiation, improving panel efficiency.

• Chemical Sensors: Eu³+-doped nanocomposites detect volatile organic compounds (VOCs) through changes in fluorescence intensity, enabling real-time air quality monitoring.

• Research & Development: Serves as a model material for studying f-f transitions in spectroscopy and as a dopant in glass fibers for optical parametric oscillators.

FAQ

Q: What is the difference between Eu²+ and Eu³+ in luminescent applications?

A: Eu³+ emits red light under UV excitation, while Eu²+ emits blue light in reducing environments; our oxide primarily provides Eu³+ for red phosphor applications.

Q: Can Europium Oxide be used in anti-corrosion coatings?

A: Yes, when combined with zinc oxide, it forms a protective layer on steel surfaces, inhibiting electrochemical reactions in marine environments.

Q: How does particle size affect phosphor brightness?

A: Submicron particles (0.3-0.5 μm) offer higher surface area for light emission, while larger particles (1-5 μm) improve mechanical durability in high-power LED packages.

Q: Is there a radioactive risk associated with Europium Oxide?

A: No, natural europium isotopes are non-radioactive, and the material is classified as non-hazardous for industrial handling.

Q: What is the shelf life under standard storage conditions?

A: Sealed in dry nitrogen-filled containers, Eu₂O₃ remains stable for 5+ years at <25°C and <40% RH; avoid prolonged exposure to humid air to prevent surface hydration.