Niobium(IV) oxide is used as a reducing agent, which reduces carbon dioxide and sulfur dioxide to carbon and sulfur respectively. It finds application in dielectric material for electronic capacitors. It is also used for manufacturing metal niobium metal, in optical glass and in electronic industry.
In this procedure, pure Nb2O5 is reduced in an H2 stream at1000-1200°C.
The reduction time for 1 g. of oxide (contained in a boat) is 1-2hours. Weight control is necessary, since prolonged heating athigh temperatures produces some further reduction to NbO.
