Thermal decomposition of yttrium(III) propionate and butyrate

► Y(C2H5CO2)3·H2O and Y(C3H7CO2)3·2H2O decompose in 4 steps. ► Dehydration takes place in a single step between 35 °C and 110 °C. ► Decomposition of the anhydrous salts to Y2O2CO3 occurs between 300 °C and 400 °C. ► CO2 and a symmetrical ketone (3-pentanone and 4-heptanone) are relased. ► Y(C3H7CO2)3 melts at 105 °C.