Cadmium oxide
Cadmium oxide (chemical formula: CdO) is an inorganic compound consisting of cadmium and oxygen. It is a brownish, crystalline solid that is primarily used in the production of cadmium-based solar cells, batteries, and semiconductors. Cadmium oxide is also utilized in the glass and ceramic industries as a colorant and a flux.
Properties[edit | edit source]
Cadmium oxide is a brown, amorphous or crystalline powder. It has a melting point of 1,559 °C (2,838 °F) and a boiling point of 1,550 °C (2,822 °F). The compound is insoluble in water but soluble in acids. It exhibits both ionic and covalent bonding characteristics.
Production[edit | edit source]
Cadmium oxide can be produced by the oxidation of cadmium metal in air. This process involves heating cadmium in the presence of oxygen, resulting in the formation of cadmium oxide. Another method of production is the thermal decomposition of cadmium nitrate or cadmium carbonate.
Applications[edit | edit source]
Solar Cells[edit | edit source]
Cadmium oxide is used in the manufacture of cadmium telluride (CdTe) solar cells, which are a type of thin-film solar cell. These cells are known for their high efficiency and low production costs.
Batteries[edit | edit source]
Cadmium oxide is a key component in the production of nickel-cadmium batteries (NiCd batteries). These rechargeable batteries are widely used in portable electronic devices and power tools.
Semiconductors[edit | edit source]
In the semiconductor industry, cadmium oxide is used as a transparent conducting oxide. It is employed in the fabrication of thin-film transistors and other electronic devices.
Glass and Ceramics[edit | edit source]
Cadmium oxide is used as a colorant in the glass and ceramic industries. It imparts a yellow or red color to glass and ceramics and acts as a flux to lower the melting point of the materials.
Health and Safety[edit | edit source]
Cadmium oxide is highly toxic and poses significant health risks if inhaled or ingested. Prolonged exposure can lead to serious health issues, including cadmium poisoning, lung damage, and kidney dysfunction. Proper safety measures, such as the use of personal protective equipment and adequate ventilation, are essential when handling cadmium oxide.
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
