Non-isothermal decomposition study of iron (III) oxalate and rare earth oxides mixture

Abstract

The catalytic activity of rare earth oxides (Sm₂O_3, Gd₂O₃,DY₂O₃) on the non- isothermal decomposition of iron (III) oxalate hydrate has been studied by adopting rising temperature technique. It is found that the reaction takes place in two different stages. Analysis of the data in the light of theories of various

kinetic models indicates that the first stage follows contracting volume model (R₃) whereas the second one obeys first order (F₁) process. Admixtures enhance the rate of reaction of both the stages. Catalytic activity is of the order: Sm₂O₃ > Gd₂O₃> DY₂O₃. The plausible mechanism of decomposition and the effect of rare earth oxides on the process have been discussed in detail.