Lanthanum Trifluoride (LaF3) Powder
Lanthanum trifluoride (LaF3) is an ionic compound of rare earth-metal lanthanum and fluoride. The crystal structure of LaF3 belongs to the hexagonal crystal system. Similar to other rare-earth materials LaF3 powders improve the mechanical strength of composites. Thus, LaF3 powder can significantly strengthen the load-bearing capacity and wear resistance of the lubricating coatings. Furthermore, it is an eco-friendly and inexpensive filler material in comparison to gold and silver nanoparticles. LaF3 nanoparticles also show notable optical properties and high ionic conductivity at ambient temperatures. LaF3 nanoparticles can show strong near-infrared (NIR) and up-conversion fluorescence emission under NIR excitation. Ionic conductivity of LaF3 is utilized in chemical sensors for sensing fluoride, oxygen and carbon monoxide because of its high chemical stability. The optical properties of LaF3 are utilized in fiber optics, fluorescent lamps, and radiation applications. Other promising applications of LaF3 are lighting, displays, biological labels, bio probes, and optical amplifiers.