-20 mesh with 99.9% purity; a yellowish or grayish white powder(s); hygroscopic [STR93] [CER91]
Terbium(III) chloride is used generally where Tb3+ ions can be used to check for the presence of microbes. Terbium chloride is applied to the test area, which is then illuminated with UV light. Within minutes, any live endospores present will glow green.
Poison by intraperitoneal route. Moderately toxic by ingestion. An eye and severe skin irritant. When heated to decomposition it emits very toxic fumes of Cl-. See also TERBIUM, CHLORIDES, and RARE EARTHS.
