Editorial Feature

Ytterbium (Yb) Nanoparticles - Properties, Applications

Nanoparticles offer smarter, cleaner, lighter and stronger surfaces and systems. The potential for nanoparticles in therapeutic and industrial areas is infinite, with novel applications constantly being explored.

Ytterbium is a soft, malleable and ductile element that is readily attacked by strong mineral acids. It slowly reacts with cold water and oxidizes in air. The electrical resistance of ytterbium is increased when it is subjected to high stresses.

Ytterbium nanoparticles have interesting magnetic and optical properties, with applications in imaging and biomedical science.

Chemical Properties

The chemical properties of ytterbium nanoparticles are outlined in the following table.

Chemical Data
Chemical symbol Yb
CAS No. 7440-64-4
Electronic configuration [Xe] 4f14 6s2

Physical Properties

The physical properties of ytterbium nanoparticles are given in the following table.

Properties Metric Imperial
Density 6.57 g/cm3 0.237 lb/in3
Molar mass 173.04 g/mol -

Thermal Properties

The thermal properties of ytterbium nanoparticles are provided in the table below.

Properties Metric Imperial
Melting point 824°C 1520°F
Boiling point 1196°C 2185°F

Manufacturing Process

Ytterbium nanoparticles are synthesized by gas deposition method where metallic ytterbium is evaporated by heating in a gas atmosphere. The nanoparticles are formed by solidification and aggregation during collisions with the gas molecules.

Applications

The key applications of ytterbium nanoparticles are listed below:

  • High-power fiber lasers and amplifiers
  • Dopant for glass, laser optics and optical fibers
  • Coatings, plastics, nanowireS and catalyst applications.

Source: AZoNano

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