Mechanism and Caloric Effects of the Thermal Dehydration of GdCl3 ⋅ 6H2O Crystalline Hydrate

Abstract—The thermal dehydration of GdCl3 ⋅ 6H2O crystalline hydrate is studied by synchronous thermal analysis and mass spectrometry using certified samples. The mechanism and the caloric effects of the chemical reactions are determined. The thermal decomposition of GdCl3 ⋅ 6H2O crystalline hydrate is accompanied by hydrolysis, leading to the formation of oxychloride GdOCl.