Overview
Thulium metal granules are a rare earth element with the atomic number 69. As one of the least abundant rare earth metals, thulium is primarily extracted from minerals like monazite and xenotime. The granules are characterized by their silvery-gray appearance and high purity, making them suitable for specialized industrial and scientific applications. Due to its scarcity, thulium is often produced in small quantities, and its applications are limited to high-value niches. The metal is soft, malleable, and can be cut with a knife, but it must be stored carefully to prevent oxidation. Thulium's unique properties, including its paramagnetic nature, make it valuable in advanced technologies.
Physical and Chemical Properties
Thulium metal granules exhibit a density of 9.32 g/cm³ and melt at 1545°C, with a boiling point of 1950°C. The metal is insoluble in water but dissolves readily in acids, forming trivalent thulium compounds. Its paramagnetic properties are notable, as it becomes ferromagnetic at temperatures below 32 K. Thulium is relatively stable in dry air but tarnishes slowly in moist environments. To maintain its integrity, it is often stored under inert gas or mineral oil. The metal's softness and malleability allow it to be easily shaped for specific applications, though its reactivity requires careful handling.
Main Applications
Thulium metal granules are primarily used in medical and industrial settings. One of the most significant applications is in solid-state lasers, particularly thulium-doped YAG lasers, which are used in surgical procedures and dermatology. These lasers operate at wavelengths ideal for cutting and coagulating tissue with minimal collateral damage. Another critical use is in portable X-ray devices, where thulium serves as a radiation source. The metal is also employed in nuclear reactors as a neutron absorber due to its high cross-section for thermal neutrons. Additionally, thulium finds niche applications in superconductors and as a dopant in optical fibers.
Safety and Storage
Handling thulium metal granules requires strict safety protocols. The metal should be stored in a cool, dry place under an inert atmosphere or mineral oil to prevent oxidation. Direct contact with skin or inhalation of dust should be avoided, as thulium compounds can be toxic. Workers should use gloves and protective eyewear when handling thulium, and operations should be conducted in a fume hood or controlled environment. In case of exposure, affected areas should be rinsed immediately with water, and medical advice should be sought. Proper disposal methods must be followed to minimize environmental impact.
B2B Procurement Guide
When procuring thulium metal granules, buyers should prioritize purity levels, typically ranging from 99.9% to 99.99%. High-purity thulium is essential for applications like lasers and medical devices. Suppliers should provide certificates of analysis to verify purity and traceability. Packaging is another critical factor; thulium granules should be sealed under inert gas to prevent oxidation. Buyers should also assess supplier reliability, lead times, and compliance with international standards. Due to thulium's high cost, bulk purchases may offer cost savings, but storage conditions must be carefully managed to preserve quality.
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