Synthesis, characterization and thermal analysis of 1:1 and 2:3 lanthanide(III) citrates

The synthesis and characterization of lanthanide(III) citrates with stoichiometries 1:1 and 2:3; LnL·xH₂O] and Ln₂(LH)₃·2H₂O], Ln=La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Sm and Eu are reported. L stands for (C₆O₇H₅)^3? and LH for (C₆O₇H₆)^2?. Infrared absorption spectra of both series evidence coordination of carboxylate groups through symmetric bridges or chelation. X-ray powder patterns show the amorphous character of LnL·xH₂O]. The compounds Ln₂LH₃·2H₂O] are crystalline and isomorphous. Emission spectra of Eu compounds suggest C _2v symmetry for the coordination polyhedron of LnL·xH₂O] and C _4v for Ln₂(LH)₃·2H₂O]. Thermal analyses (TG-DTG-DTA) were carried out for both series. The thermal analysis patterns of the two series are quite different and both fit in a 4-step model of thermal decomposition, with lanthanide oxides as final products.