Actinium(III) fluoride
Actinium(III) fluoride (AcF3) is an inorganic chemical compound consisting of the radioactive element actinium in its +3 oxidation state and fluorine. It is an ionic compound formed by the electrostatic attraction between actinium(III) cations (Ac3+) and fluoride anions (F-).
Actinium(III) fluoride is typically prepared by reacting actinium(III) solutions with hydrofluoric acid or a fluoride salt solution. The product precipitates out of solution.
Due to the intense radioactivity of actinium and the generally low availability of actinium compounds, Actinium(III) fluoride is primarily of research interest. It has limited practical applications. Studies involving Actinium(III) fluoride primarily focus on its chemical properties and behavior within actinide chemistry research, as well as potential applications in separating and purifying actinium from other radioactive elements. Due to its low solubility, it can be used to separate Actinium from other elements in solution through precipitation.
The compound is a white solid. Its crystal structure is similar to that of other lanthanide and actinide trifluorides. It is insoluble in water and dilute acids. Handling Actinium(III) fluoride requires specialized facilities and precautions due to the radioactive nature of actinium, including the use of appropriate shielding and containment measures to protect personnel and the environment from radiation exposure.