Dysprosium oxide is one of the most important compounds of the rare earth metal dysprosium. It is a white hygroscopic powder that is used in various applications. In particular, it is used as a catalyst for the manufacture of optical materials and as an antireflection coating for glass and electronic devices.
Dysprosium is a trivalent, oxidizing element that is characterized by a high melting point and magnetic properties. Although it is not a free element in nature, it can be found in several minerals. One of the most important sources of dysprosium is euxenite. Several other minerals contain small amounts of the metal.
The oxide is very stable in air, although it is not soluble in water. This characteristic makes it suitable for glass, ceramics, phosphors, and other types of applications.
Dysprosium oxide is also used in nuclear reactor control rods. When used with nickel, it has the ability to absorb neutrons, which helps to cool the rods in a reactor. Another use is in a terfenol-D alloy, which is a material that contains terbium and is used in sensors.
Dysprosium has the highest thermal neutron absorption cross-section of all the elements. As such, it is an important material for nuclear reactors. However, manufacturers have reduced the use of dysprosium, due to risks associated with its supply.
Dysprosium is often combined with other elements to make magnetic alloys. It is also used in a variety of permanent magnets. Among its many uses, it is also an essential additive in NdFeB magnets.
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