Tb - Terbium

Terbium (Tb) is a chemical element with the atomic number 65, belonging to the lanthanide series on the periodic table. It’s known for its unique physical characteristics, significant applications, particularly in electronics and lighting, and its role in various compounds that enhance the functionality of materials and devices.

Physical Characteristics:

• Appearance: Terbium is a silvery-white, soft, malleable, and ductile metal that is fairly stable in air. It is relatively hard for a rare earth metal.
• Atomic Weight: About 158.92535 atomic mass units.
• Melting Point: Approximately 1356°C (2473°F).
• Boiling Point: About 3230°C (5846°F).

Application:

• Phosphors: Terbium is used in the manufacture of green phosphors, which are essential for color television tubes, fluorescent lamps, and LED devices. Terbium-doped phosphors exhibit strong green emission when excited by energy.
• Magneto-optic Materials: Terbium’s unique magnetic properties make it valuable in the development of magneto-optical recording media, such as in the form of terbium iron garnet, which is used in magneto-optical disks and advanced data storage technologies.
• Solid-State Devices: It is used in solid-state devices and other electronics that require materials with specific magnetic and optical properties.

Compounds:

• Terbium Oxide (Tb4O7): This compound is used in ceramics and in the preparation of other terbium compounds. It serves as a catalytic agent in the oxidation of hydrocarbons.
• Terbium Fluoride (TbF3): Utilized in the manufacturing of glass and ceramics, it also acts as a catalyst in certain chemical reactions.
• Terbium-Doped Gadolinium Oxysulfide (Gd2O2S:Tb): A phosphor used in X-ray intensifying screens, offering high X-ray absorption and efficient green luminescence.

Basics on Terbium-Wikipedia