Dysprosium(III) fluoride, also known as dysprosium trifluoride

Dysprosium(III) fluoride, also known as dysprosium trifluoride, is a chemical compound with the formula DyF3. It is a white crystalline powder with a density of 7.5 g/cm³ and exhibits a melting point of 1360 °C and a boiling point of 2200 °C. This compound is hygroscopic, meaning it readily absorbs moisture from the air, and is soluble in strong mineral acids but insoluble in water. It is characterized by its YF3-type crystal structure and belongs to the Nogata crystal system with a space group of Pnma.

Dysprosium(III) fluoride is highly pure, with commercial products often available at purities of 99.9% or higher. It is used in various specialized applications, including the production of dysprosium metal, laser glass, phosphors, and dysprosium halide lamps. The compound is also used in optical fiber technology, where it contributes to the creation of materials with unique optical properties. Due to its rarity and the specific applications, dysprosium(III) fluoride is a valuable material in the field of materials science and optical technology.

In terms of safety, dysprosium(III) fluoride has exposure limits set by ACGIH at 2.5 mg/m³ and by NIOSH at 250 mg/m³. It is important to handle this compound with care, following appropriate safety procedures to minimize health and environmental risks. The compound's sensitivity to moisture and its reactivity with water mean that it must be stored and handled under controlled conditions to maintain its purity and effectiveness.