Lutetium phosphide is an inorganic compound of lutetium and phosphorus with the chemical formula . The compound forms dark crystals, does not dissolve in water.
Synthesis Heating powdered lutetium and red phosphorus in an inert atmosphere or vacuum:
It can also be formed in the reaction of lutetium and phosphine.
Physical properties Lutetium phosphide forms dark cubic crystals, space group Fmm, cell parameters a = 0.5533 nm, with formulas per unit cell Z = 4.
It is stable in air, does not dissolve in water and reacts actively with nitric acid.
Uses The compound is a semiconductor used in high power, high-frequency applications, and in laser diodes.
Also used in gamma radiation detectors due to its ability to absorb radiation.
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