Used in specialty glass and ceramics to enhance optical properties and thermal stability. Employed in the production of ytterbium metal, which serves in alloying agents for stainless steel and in nuclear applications. Acts as a precursor in the synthesis of other ytterbium compounds used in luminescent materials and phosphors. Applied in research settings for developing new catalysts and in the fabrication of advanced electronic materials. Also utilized in the preparation of doped materials for solid-state lasers and optical amplifiers.