Antimony (III) Oxide Micron Powder (Sb₂O₃, 99.9%, 3 µm)
Technical Specifications:
- Chemical Formula: Sb₂O₃
- Purity: 99.9% (high purity)
- Particle Size: 3 µm (microns)
- Appearance: White to light yellow powder
- Density: Approximately 5.4 g/cm³
- Melting Point: 656°C (1,213°F)
- Boiling Point: 1,580°C (2,876°F)
- Molecular Weight: 291.52 g/mol
- Solubility: Insoluble in water but soluble in hydrochloric acid (HCl) and other acids
- Crystal Structure: Orthorhombic
- Refractive Index: ~1.91
Applications:
- Flame Retardants:
- Antimony (III) Oxide is primarily used as a flame retardant in various materials such as plastics, textiles, and rubber. When combined with halogenated compounds, it forms a highly effective flame-retardant system, reducing the flammability of the material and slowing down the spread of fire.
- This application is especially important in the electrical, automotive, and construction industries, where fire resistance is crucial.
- Catalysis:
- Antimony Oxide is used as a catalyst or a catalyst support in several chemical reactions. It is utilized in the production of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyester fibers, as well as in hydrocarbon cracking processes in petrochemical industries.
- It plays a role in the oxidation of organic compounds and is sometimes used in the production of organic antimony compounds.
- Pigments in Ceramics and Glass:
- Antimony (III) Oxide is used as a white pigment in ceramic glazes and enamel coatings. It is especially valued for its high opacity and resistance to high temperatures, making it suitable for porcelain, tiles, and other ceramic products.
- It is also used as a clarifying agent in glass production, improving the clarity and quality of the glass.
- Semiconductors:
- Antimony Oxide is involved in the production of semiconductors, particularly in the fabrication of thin-film semiconductors. It is used in the creation of infrared detectors and other photoelectric devices.
- Due to its properties as a n-type semiconductor, it can be used in electronic applications where specific conductivity is needed.
- Stabilizer in PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride):
- Antimony (III) Oxide is used as a stabilizer in the production of polyvinyl chloride (PVC). It helps to improve the thermal stability of PVC, preventing it from degrading at high temperatures during processing.
- This application is crucial in the production of wiring, pipes, and other PVC products that are exposed to heat during their lifecycle.
- Lead Stabilizer in Lead-Based Batteries:
- Antimony Oxide is used in lead-based batteries as a stabilizer for the lead grid. It helps to increase the durability and life cycle of lead-acid batteries, which are commonly used in automotive applications and backup power systems.
- Antimony Compounds:
- Antimony (III) Oxide is a precursor for the synthesis of other antimony compounds, such as antimony trichloride (SbCl₃), antimony pentachloride (SbCl₅), and antimony trisulfide (Sb₂S₃). These compounds have various industrial uses, including in the production of fire retardants and lubricants.
- Electronics & Solar Cells:
- Antimony Oxide is also used in the development of thin-film photovoltaic cells (solar cells). It serves as a transparent conductive oxide material in solar energy technology.
- In addition, it is used in thin-film transistors (TFTs) and other electronic devices for the production of transparent conductive films.
- Lead-Free Solders:
- **Antimony Oxide is used in the production of lead-free solders, which are commonly used in electronic assembly. This helps to improve the solder’s mechanical properties and its resistance to corrosion.
- Polymer Additives:
- Antimony (III) Oxide is used as an additive in the manufacture of polymer materials, particularly in the polyester industry, where it plays a role in enhancing the thermal stability and strength of the polymer.
- Antioxidant and Stabilizer:
- In plastics and rubber compounds, Antimony (III) Oxide is used as an antioxidant to prevent the degradation of these materials when exposed to oxygen, heat, and light over time.
- Glass & Ceramic Coatings:
- Antimony (III) Oxide is used in the production of glazes for ceramics, enhancing their texture and appearance. It also serves as an ingredient in glass coatings that require resistance to high heat and other physical stresses.
Antimony (III) Oxide Micron Powder (Sb₂O₃, 99.9%, 3 µm) is a versatile compound with widespread applications in industries like flame retardants, catalysts, pigments, semiconductors, and electronics. Its high purity and fine particle size make it suitable for advanced technological and industrial processes that require high performance, stability, and effectiveness.
