Description
Overview
Samarium, a moderately hard and silvery rare earth metal, is relatively stable in air and typically processed into ingots, powder, or samarium oxide for industrial use. Extracted primarily from bastnäsite and monazite ores through advanced refining methods, samarium is a critical component in high-performance applications. It is best known for its role in samarium-cobalt (SmCo) magnets, which offer exceptional resistance to demagnetization and perform reliably in extreme conditions, making them ideal for aerospace components, such as actuators, and medical devices like MRI machines. Samarium’s stability and specialized uses in demanding industries, combined with its recyclability, position it as a valuable resource in the technology metals market.
Properties
- Composition: Typically 99.9% or higher pure samarium.
- Density: 7.52 g/cm³.
- Melting Point: 1,074°C (1,965°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 processing.
- Electrical Conductivity: Poor conductor, resistivity ~94 μΩ·cm at 20°C.
- Thermal Conductivity: Low, ~13.3 W/(m·K) at 20°C.
- Corrosion Resistance: Reactive, forms oxide layer in air; reacts with acids and water over time.
Applications
- Samarium-cobalt magnets (e.g., in aerospace, defense)
- Nuclear reactors (e.g., neutron-absorbing control rods)
- Cancer treatment (e.g., samarium-153 for pain relief in bone cancer)
- Glass and ceramics (e.g., infrared-absorbing glass)
- Catalysts in chemical reactions
Packaging options
Standard Format:
Samarium ingots or powder, typically 1–5 kg per ingot.
Packaging:
Packed in vacuum-sealed or argon-filled containers.
Custom Sizes Available:
Can be processed into specific forms (e.g., powder, foil).
Market outlook
Samarium’s demand is driven by its use in magnets and medical applications. Samarium oxide prices are around $3–$5 per kg as of early 2025, with China dominating supply. The market is expected to remain stable, with potential growth in medical 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!
