Overview
Erbium is a rare earth metal widely used as a dopant in fiber optic amplifiers and lasers for telecommunications.
Properties
It exhibits +3 oxidation state and provides emission at wavelengths ideal for optical communications around 1.5 ?m.
Occurrence and Uses
Key use as erbium doped fiber amplifiers EDFAs, in lasers, glass coloring and metallurgical applications.
Isotopes and Safety
Stable isotopes include Er 166 to Er 170; erbium compounds are of low acute toxicity and handled with routine precautions.