Lantoids
General Characteristics
Metallic lanthanum was first isolated in pure form by Mosander by heating lanthanum oxide with potassium chloride. In the Mendeleev Table, lanthanum heads a chain of fourteen lanthanides, which are similar to each other in properties and applications. It is a silvery-white metal covered with an oxide film. Its physical properties (melting point, boiling point, electrical conductivity, etc.) are unremarkable. Under normal conditions, it does not change — a protective film of oxide does not allow it to oxidize, but at high humidity it may form a medium strength hydroxide. In terms of production and extraction, lanthanum is considerably inferior to its nearest relative — cerium, which is easier to obtain and process. Industrial methods are used to produce lanthanum at not less than 99% purity from monazite and bastnaesite together with cerium and other elements of cerium subgroup.
Relevance
Today, lanthanum and its analogues find application in many modern industries. Most often in the production of lasers, lighting, radioelectronics, television. Ceramics with additives of the same cerium are used in rocket production because of its extreme refractoriness. Rare metals are priced to match the quality. Lanthanum has a number of valuable properties that have not yet been fully utilized, but will be appreciated over time,
| Atomic number | Atomic (molar) mass g/mol. | Oxidation state | Density [g/cm3] | Melting point t°C | Boiling point t ° C | Melting point kJ/kg |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| № 57 | 139 | 3 | 6,16−6,18 | 647°С | 3214−3236°С | 8,5 |
Promising Directions
Optical industry today can hardly do without lanthanides and their derivatives. Lanthanum oxide — main component of optical glasses — is most widely used in optics. A major application of lanthanide oxides is in abrasive materials, such as the well-known composition «polyrite. This is the most effective powder for polishing.
Buy at a bargain price
Evek GmbH always has a wide range of high quality lanthanum and its alloys in stock. We sell wholesale and retail products at optimal prices. Quality is guaranteed by strict adherence to standards and production technology. Technical documentation contains data on the chemical composition of products, the maximum percentage of impurities and mechanical properties. The products are ultrasonically checked for defects. Consultations of experienced managers will help you to make a choice. Orders are placed as soon as possible. Wholesale customers benefit from discounted prices.