Barium Sulfate

Barium Sulfate (CAS No: 7727-43-7) Supplier in Europe

Barium sulfate is a fascinating compound with a wide range of industrial and medical uses. As a naturally occurring mineral, it plays a crucial role in the production of various products, including paints and plastics.

In the medical field, it is invaluable for imaging processes.

The use of barium sulfate in medical imaging, particularly as a contrast agent for X-ray and CT scans, ensures enhanced visibility of structures within the body. This compound’s ability to highlight parts of the digestive system offers clear and precise diagnostic information.

Its inert nature means it passes through the body without being absorbed.

Industrially, its high density and opacity make it an excellent component in the production of paints, giving them unique texture and durability.

Additionally, its application in the creation of plastics enhances their resistance to scratches and wear, showcasing its versatility in both fields.

Chemical and Physical Properties

Barium sulfate is a compound known for its molecular structure and distinct physical characteristics. It is often encountered as a white or colorless crystalline solid with specific solubility properties that affect its various applications.

Molecular Structure

Barium sulfate has the chemical formula BaSO₄. Comprising one barium (Ba) cation and one sulfate (SO₄²⁻) anion, this compound forms an ionic bond.

The structure is characterized by a high level of symmetry.

Each barium ion is surrounded by four sulfate ions, leading to a lattice formation. This contributes to its stability and relatively high density.

The arrangement also accounts for its inertness, making it a useful substance in applications requiring minimal reactivity.

Physical State

In its natural form, barium sulfate appears as a white solid. It is known for its high melting point of about 1580°C (2876°F), adding to its thermal stability.

Physically, it is dense and heavy, contributing to its effectiveness as a weighting agent in some industrial processes.

Furthermore, barium sulfate is typically found in powdered form for use in various applications.

Solubility

Barium sulfate is notable for its low solubility in water, rated at approximately 0.0002448 g/100 mL at 25°C.

This low solubility is due to the strong ionic bonds in its crystalline lattice. This characteristic limits its biological availability, making it safe for use in medical imaging as a contrast agent.

While insoluble in water, it is also unreactive with most acids, except concentrated sulfuric acid. This property is crucial for its use in environments where chemical stability is necessary.

Applications

Barium sulfate has diverse applications in both medical and industrial sectors. It plays a crucial role in imaging and diagnostic procedures and serves as an important component in various manufacturing processes.

Medical Use

Barium sulfate is widely used in medical imaging. Its ability to absorb X-rays makes it an ideal contrast agent for procedures like barium swallow and barium enema.

These procedures help in visualizing the gastrointestinal tract to diagnose conditions such as blockages, cancers, and ulcers.

Patient comfort is prioritized during these procedures. Barium sulfate is typically administered in a liquid form, allowing easy ingestion or enema administration.

It is generally safe for most patients, though rare allergic reactions can occur.

Industrial Use

In industry, barium sulfate is valued for its density and chemical inertness. It is frequently used as a filler in paints, coatings, and plastics.

Its presence enhances durability and weather resistance.

In the oil and gas sector, it serves as a drilling fluid additive. Its high density helps control well pressure.

Barium sulfate is also a standard component in the production of rubber, paper, and ceramics, where it improves the final product’s quality.