Gadolinium(III) bromide
Gadolinium(III) bromide is an inorganic chemical compound with the formula GdBr3. It is a salt formed from the rare earth metal gadolinium and bromine. It exists as a white or slightly yellowish hygroscopic solid.
Gadolinium(III) bromide is primarily used as a precursor in the synthesis of other gadolinium compounds and as a component in certain research applications. Due to its paramagnetic properties, gadolinium(III) compounds find use in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents, although the specific role of the bromide form is less prominent in this application compared to chelated complexes.
The compound is typically prepared by the reaction of gadolinium(III) oxide or gadolinium metal with hydrobromic acid or by direct reaction of gadolinium with bromine. It is soluble in water and other polar solvents.
Gadolinium(III) bromide is irritating to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. Appropriate safety precautions, including the use of personal protective equipment, should be taken when handling the substance.