Erbium oxide from erbium acetate hydrate; formation, characterization and catalytic activity

The thermal processes involved during the decomposition course of hydrated erbium acetate (Er(CH3COO)3·4H2O) up to 800°C in an atmosphere of static air were monitored by non-isothermal gravimetry and differential thermal analyses. The gaseous decomposition products were identified by IR spectroscopy. Intermediates and final solid products were characterized by IR spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results showed that Er acetate dehydrates completely in one step and decomposes to Er2O3 at 590°C through three noncrystalline unstable intermediates. The volatile decomposition products from the acetate are water vapor, acetic acid, ketene and acetone. Er2O3 obtained from ErAc at 800°C has large porous particles with surface area of 55 m2/g. Er2O3 obtained catalyzes the decomposition of acetone to give methane and isobutene.