
Yttrium(III) fluoride

Yttrium(III) fluoride is an inorganic chemical compound with the chemical formula YF3. It is not known naturally in 'pure' form. The fluoride minerals containing essential yttrium include tveitite-(Y) (Y,Na)6Ca6Ca6F42 and gagarinite-(Y) NaCaY(F,Cl)6. Sometimes mineral fluorite contains admixtures of yttrium.
Synthesis.
YF3 can be produced by reacting fluorine with yttria or yttrium hydroxide with hydrofluoric acid.
Occurrence and uses.
It occurs as the mineral waimirite-(Y).
Yttrium(III) fluoride can be used for the production of metallic yttrium, thin films, glasses and ceramics.
Hazards.
Conditions/substances to avoid are: acids, active metals and moisture.