Description
Overview
Holmium, a bright and silvery rare earth metal, is relatively soft and malleable, making it easy to process into forms such as ingots, powder, or holmium oxide to meet specialized industrial requirements. Primarily extracted from monazite and xenotime ores through complex separation and refining processes, holmium is a scarce yet critical material in advanced technologies. Known for possessing the highest magnetic moment of any naturally occurring element, it is a key component in the production of high-strength magnets used in scientific research, medical imaging equipment, and nuclear control systems. Additionally, holmium’s unique optical properties make it essential in laser technology, particularly for medical lasers used in surgeries and in fiber optic communications for signal amplification. Despite its rarity, holmium’s role in cutting-edge applications, along with its potential for recycling, highlights its value as a sustainable resource in the technology metals market.
Properties
- Composition: Typically 99.9% or higher pure holmium.
- Density: 8.80 g/cm³.
- Melting Point: 1,474°C (2,685°F).
- Color: Silvery-white, metallic, and lustrous (tarnishes in air).
- Malleability: Moderately malleable, can be shaped with effort.
- Ductility: Limited ductility, can be drawn into wires with difficulty.
- Electrical Conductivity: Poor conductor, resistivity ~94 μΩ·cm at 20°C.
- Thermal Conductivity: Low, ~16.2 W/(m·K) at 20°C.
- Corrosion Resistance: Reactive, forms oxide layer in air; reacts with acids.
Applications
- High-strength magnets (e.g., in medical and research applications)
- Lasers (e.g., for medical and scientific use)
- Nuclear reactors (e.g., neutron-absorbing control rods)
- Optical filters (e.g., for calibration in spectroscopy)
- Glass coloring (e.g., yellow hues)
Packaging options
Standard Format:
Holmium ingots or powder, typically 1–5 kg per ingot
Packaging:
Packed in vacuum-sealed or argon-filled containers
Can be processed into specific forms (e.g., powder, foil)
Can be processed into specific forms (e.g., powder, wire)
Market outlook
Holmium’s demand is niche, driven by its use in research and specialized magnets. Holmium oxide prices are around $50–$100 per kg as of early 2025, with China dominating supply. The market is expected to remain stable, with potential growth in laser and nuclear applications.
Purchase & Compliance
Certificate of analysis included. Third-party testing offered. KYC may apply for bulk orders.
If you’d like more details on any of these materials, such as specific applications, market trends, or technical specifications, send us a message!
