Introduction
Lanthanum Sputtering Target (La) is a high-purity rare earth metal target used in advanced thin-film deposition processes where precise compositional control and functional material performance are required. As a highly reactive lanthanide element, lanthanum plays an important role in optical coatings, electronic materials, functional oxides, and energy-related thin films. Lanthanum sputtering targets are widely applied in research laboratories and pilot-scale production environments focused on next-generation electronic and optical technologies.
Detailed Description
Lanthanum sputtering targets are manufactured from refined, high-purity lanthanum metal using controlled melting, forming, and precision machining processes. Due to lanthanum’s strong affinity for oxygen and moisture, production and handling are carefully managed to minimize surface oxidation and impurity pickup. Finished targets exhibit uniform composition, stable density, and consistent microstructure—essential for predictable sputtering behavior.
In magnetron sputtering processes, lanthanum is commonly used as a metallic film, an alloying element, or as a precursor for lanthanum-based oxide films through reactive sputtering. Control of deposition parameters such as base pressure, oxygen partial pressure, and substrate temperature allows tuning of film properties including dielectric constant, optical refractive index, and chemical stability.
Lanthanum sputtering targets are available in monolithic form or bonded to metallic backing plates (such as copper or titanium) to improve thermal conductivity and mechanical stability during higher-power sputtering operations.
Applications
Lanthanum sputtering targets are widely used in:
Optical coatings and high-index thin films
Lanthanum oxide (La₂O₃) thin films via reactive sputtering
Semiconductor and microelectronic device research
Dielectric and high-k material development
Energy storage and fuel cell material research
Functional oxide and catalytic coatings
Academic and industrial thin-film R&D
Technical Parameters
| Parameter | Typical Value / Range | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Lanthanum (La) | Rare earth functional metal |
| Purity | 99.9% – 99.99% | Ensures film consistency |
| Target Diameter | 25 – 300 mm (custom) | Fits standard sputtering guns |
| Thickness | 3 – 6 mm (custom available) | Affects sputtering stability |
| Density | ≥ 99% of theoretical | Promotes uniform erosion |
| Backing Plate | Optional (Cu / Ti) | Improves heat dissipation |
| Deposition Method | DC / RF Magnetron Sputtering | Process flexibility |
Comparison with Related Rare Earth Targets
| Material | Key Advantage | Typical Application |
|---|---|---|
| Lanthanum (La) | High reactivity, oxide formation | Optical & dielectric films |
| Cerium (Ce) | Redox activity | Catalytic coatings |
| Yttrium (Y) | Thermal stability | Optical & protective films |
| Neodymium (Nd) | Magnetic contribution | Functional magnetic films |
FAQ
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is lanthanum suitable for reactive sputtering? | Yes, lanthanum is commonly sputtered with oxygen to form La₂O₃ films. |
| Does lanthanum oxidize easily? | Yes, vacuum sealing and controlled handling are essential to maintain purity. |
| Is bonding recommended? | Bonded targets are recommended for larger sizes or higher power densities. |
| Can small R&D targets be supplied? | Yes, laboratory-scale targets are available. |
| How is the target packaged? | Vacuum-sealed with protective materials to prevent oxidation. |
Packaging
Our Lanthanum Sputtering Targets are meticulously vacuum-sealed and externally labeled to ensure accurate identification and strict quality control. Protective cushioning and moisture-resistant packaging are used to prevent oxidation or mechanical damage during storage and international transportation.
Conclusion
The Lanthanum Sputtering Target (La) is a reliable material choice for depositing rare-earth-based metallic and oxide thin films with controlled optical, electrical, and chemical properties. With high purity, customizable dimensions, and stable sputtering performance, lanthanum targets support advanced research and emerging thin-film technologies.
For detailed specifications and a quotation, please contact us at sales@thinfilmmaterials.com.




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