Cerium(III) bromide hydrate is a compound with the molecular formula CeBr3 · H2O. It is composed of colorless needle-shaped crystals that are prone to deliquescence. Cerium(III) bromide is highly soluble in water and ethanol, and is also soluble in acetone. When exposed to heat, it decomposes. The solution of Cerium(III) bromide is neutral to Methyl orange solution, but acidic to litmus. It is recommended to store it in sealed containers.
orange powder(s); hygroscopic [STR93]
Cerium(III) bromide hydrate is used in the security, medical imaging, and geophysics detectors, γ-ray scintillation detector in nuclear non-proliferation testing, medical imaging, environmental remediation, and oil exploration.
Preparation of Cerium(III) bromide: Anhydrous Cerium(III) bromide can be synthesized by either heating Cerium(IV) oxide and Hydrogen bromide to red heat or by reacting trivalent Cerium oxalate with dry Hydrogen bromide at high temperatures.
