Thulium Nitride Powder (TmN) Description
Thulium Nitride (TmN) is an
advanced rare-earth compound known for its unique physical and chemical
properties, which make it suitable for specialized high-tech applications. It
is a dark gray, crystalline solid with a high melting point, typically above
2000 °C, indicating excellent thermal stability. This property allows TmN to
maintain its structural integrity in extreme temperature environments. It
crystallizes in a rock-salt type structure, similar to other rare earth nitrides,
offering robustness and chemical durability.
TmN exhibits metallic or
semimetallic electrical conductivity, depending on the preparation method and
stoichiometry. Its electrical and magnetic behaviors are of great interest in
the field of condensed matter physics. Notably, thulium’s partially filled 4f
orbitals contribute to TmN's intriguing magnetic properties, which are being
explored for use in spintronic devices.
In terms of chemical reactivity,
TmN is relatively stable in inert atmospheres or vacuum but can slowly oxidize
when exposed to air or moisture, forming thulium oxide on the surface. Due to
its combination of thermal resistance, conductivity, and magnetic
characteristics, TmN is a promising candidate for next-generation electronic
materials, advanced ceramics, and research involving high-temperature
superconductors or quantum computing components.
Thulium Nitride Powder (TmN) Applications
·
Thulium Nitride (TmN) finds use in several
advanced technological fields due to its unique physical and electronic
properties. In the electronics and semiconductor industry, TmN is valued for
its electrical conductivity and thermal stability, making it suitable for
high-temperature devices and as a contact material in microelectronics. Its
distinctive magnetic behavior, influenced by the 4f electrons of thulium, makes
TmN an interesting candidate for spintronic devices and other magnetic
applications.
·
In optical and infrared technologies, TmN
shows promise for use in infrared windows, filters, and laser materials,
particularly in mid-to-far infrared wavelengths. It is also being explored for
nuclear technology applications due to its potential neutron absorption
capabilities, which could be beneficial in reactor control and radiation
shielding systems.
·
Additionally, TmN is a candidate for
high-performance ceramic coatings because of its high melting point and
resistance to corrosion, making it suitable for harsh environments. In basic
scientific research, TmN serves as a model compound for studying rare earth
nitrides and their magnetic and electronic behaviors, which is essential for
developing next-generation quantum and functional materials.
Thulium Nitride Powder (TmN) Packaging
Our products are packaged in customized cartons of various
sizes based on the material dimensions. Small items are securely packed in PP
boxes, while larger items are placed in custom wooden crates. We ensure strict
adherence to packaging customization and the use of appropriate cushioning
materials to provide optimal protection during transportation.

Packaging: 500g per PE box or 1000g per vacuum-sealed bag. Carton,
Wooden Box, or Customized.
Kindly review the packaging
details provided for your reference.
Manufacturing Process
1. Testing Method
(1) Chemical Composition Analysis - Verified using techniques
such as GDMS or XRF to ensure compliance with purity requirements.
(2) Mechanical Properties Testing - Includes tensile strength,
yield strength, and elongation tests to assess material performance.
(3) Dimensional Inspection - Measures thickness, width, and
length to ensure adherence to specified tolerances.
(4) Surface Quality Inspection - Checks for defects such as
scratches, cracks, or inclusions through visual and ultrasonic examination.
(5) Hardness Testing - Determines material hardness to confirm
uniformity and mechanical reliability.
Please refer to the SAM testing procedures for detailed information.
Thulium Nitride Powder (TmN) FAQs
Q1. Is Thulium Nitride stable in air?
TmN is relatively stable in dry air but can oxidize over
time when exposed to moisture or high temperatures. It is typically handled in
inert atmospheres for storage and processing.
Q2. How is TmN powder typically synthesized?
It is usually prepared via direct nitridation of thulium
metal under a nitrogen or ammonia atmosphere at elevated temperatures, forming
a crystalline nitride phase.
Q3. Can TmN be used in research and development?
Yes, due to its unique electronic and magnetic properties,
TmN is widely studied in material science and condensed matter physics as a
model rare-earth nitride.
Performance Comparison Table with Competitive Products
Property
|
Thulium Nitride (TmN)
|
Aluminum Nitride (AlN)
|
Silicon Nitride (Si₃N₄)
|
Thermal Conductivity
|
Low (≈10-20 W/m·K)
|
High (≈320 W/m·K)
|
Low (≈30 W/m·K)
|
Hardness (HV)
|
~15-18 GPa
|
~12 GPa
|
~16 GPa
|
Melting Point
|
~2,600-2,800°C
|
2,200°C
|
1,900°C
|
Oxidation Resistance
|
Moderate (stable up to 700-850°C)
|
Excellent
|
Good
|
Electrical Conductivity
|
Semiconductor/Insulator
|
Insulator
|
Insulator
|
Applications
|
High-temperature coatings, solid-state devices
|
Electronics, heat sinks
|
Bearings, cutting tools
|
Related Information
1. Common Preparation Methods
Thulium Nitride (TmN) powder is typically synthesized by the
direct reaction of high-purity thulium metal with nitrogen gas or ammonia at
elevated temperatures, usually ranging from 800°C to 1200°C, in a controlled
inert or reducing atmosphere to prevent oxidation. The process involves placing
thulium metal in a high-temperature furnace and introducing nitrogen or ammonia
gas slowly, allowing the metal to react and form a stoichiometric nitride
compound. After the reaction is complete, the product is cooled under an inert
atmosphere such as argon to avoid contamination or oxidation. The resulting TmN
powder is then ground and sieved to obtain the desired particle size and
purity, making it suitable for use in advanced materials applications.