Barium carbonate
| Chemical formula | BaCO3 |
| Molar mass | 197.34 g/mol |
| Bulk density | ~350 kg/m3 |
| CAS number | 513-77-9 |
| HS | 28366000 |
| EC | 056-003-00-2 |
| Storage | Without limitation |
| SDS | available |
| RTECS | CQ8600000 |
| R phrase | R 22 |
| S phrase | S 24-25 |
| Odour | odourless |
| Form | solid |
| Color | white |
| p H value | ~ 7- 8 (0.016 g/l 16°C) |
| Solubility in water | 0.02 g/l ( 20 °C ) |
| Melting point | >1450 °C |
| Thermal decomposition | above 1450 °C |
| Assay | 99.0 – 101.0 | ||
| Description | Conforms | ||
| Solubility | Conforms | ||
| Identification | Conforms | ||
| Substances insoluble in hydrochloric acid | Conforms | ||
| Chloride | ≤ | 0.002 | % |
| Heavy metals (lead) | ≤ | 0.001 | % |
| Sulphide | ≤ | 0.001 | % |
| Iron | ≤ | 0.001 | % |
| Calcium | ≤ | 0.02 | % |
| Sodium | ≤ | 0.02 | % |
| Potassium | ≤ | 0.01 | % |
| Total of alkali (water soluble) | ≤ | 0.002 | meq/g |
| Oxidizing Substances | ≤ | 0.005 | % |
Barium carbonate is a white, odorless, heavy inorganic compound that occurs naturally as the mineral witherite. It is widely used in ceramics, glass manufacturing, and chemical synthesis due to its chemical reactivity and ability to neutralize acids.
🏭⚗️ Production
Barium carbonate is primarily produced by reacting barium sulfide with sodium carbonate or carbon dioxide. In the soda ash process, a solution of barium sulfide is treated with sodium carbonate to precipitate barium carbonate, which is then filtered, washed, and dried. Alternatively, it can be prepared by bubbling carbon dioxide through a suspension of barium hydroxide.
🔬 Properties
The chemical formula of barium carbonate is BaCO₃, and it has a molar mass of approximately 197.34 g/mol. It appears as a fine white powder or crystalline solid, is practically insoluble in water, but dissolves in acidic solutions with the release of carbon dioxide gas. It has a melting point of about 811 °C and decomposes upon strong heating. The compound is stable under normal conditions but may react with acids and acidic vapors.
🧪 Applications
Barium carbonate is widely used in the ceramics industry to prevent scumming in clay bodies and to improve the glaze finish. In glass production, it acts as a flux and can increase the refractive index and luster of glass. It is also used in the manufacture of ferrite magnets, pigments, and in brick and tile making. In chemical manufacturing, barium carbonate serves as a raw material for producing other barium compounds such as barium nitrate and barium titanate.
⚠️ Safety
Barium carbonate is toxic if ingested, as soluble barium compounds can interfere with muscle and nerve function, leading to serious health effects. Though it is poorly soluble in water, it becomes hazardous in acidic environments where it can release soluble barium ions. It may also cause irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract. Proper personal protective equipment, such as gloves and masks, should be used when handling the powder. It must be stored in a tightly closed container away from acids and food products.
