Characteristic

 

Samarium(III) oxide (Sm₂O₃) is a chemical compound.The oxide is commonly white to off yellow in color and is often encountered as a highly fine dust like powder.

Chemical formula：Sm₂O₃

Molar mass： 348.72 g/mol

Appearance： yellow-white crystals

Density： 8.347 g/cm³

Melting point： 2,335 °C (4,235 °F; 2,608 K)

Boiling point： Not Stated

Solubility in water：insoluble

Magnetic susceptibility (χ)：+1988.0·10−6 cm³/mol

Crystal structure：cubic

 

Application

 

The biocompatibility of natural samarium (III) oxide, which has previously been used for treatment in bone-related diseases was determined as a first step in its evaluation as a bone implant material. The rates and products of the purely heterogeneous oxidations of C₂H₆ (g) and C₂H₄ (g) on Sm₂O₃ in the presence of O₂ (g) were investigated in a very low-pressure flow reactor by on-line molecular beam mass spectrometry, about 1000±100 K. Samarium(III) oxide is used in optical and infrared absorbing glass to absorb infrared radiation. Also, it is used as a neutron absorber in control rods for nuclear power reactors. The oxide catalyzes dehydration of acyclic primary alcohols to aldehydes and ketones. Another use involves preparation of other samarium salts.