Barium Nitrate
CAS Number: 10022-31-8
Chemical Formula: Ba(NO₃)₂
Molar Mass: 261.34 g/mol
Appearance: White crystalline solid
Barium nitrate is an inorganic salt consisting of barium cations and nitrate anions. It is a strong oxidizing agent and is commonly used in applications that involve controlled combustion, color generation, or specialized glass and ceramics processing. It is odorless, water-soluble, and thermally stable under standard conditions.
Chemical and Physical Properties
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Density: 3.24 g/cm³
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Melting Point: 592 °C
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Boiling Point: Decomposes before boiling
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Solubility in Water: 4.95 g/100 mL at 0 °C; 34.2 g/100 mL at 100 °C
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Solubility in Other Solvents: Slightly soluble in ethanol; insoluble in acetone
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Odor: Odorless
Applications
Pyrotechnics: Used to produce intense green-colored flames in fireworks and color formulations.
Glass Manufacturing: Enhances the refractive index, brightness, and clarity in optical and specialty glass.
Vacuum Technology: Used in cathode coatings for vacuum tubes and electron-emitting devices.
Ceramic and Enamel Production: Applied as an oxidizing flux in glazes and ceramic frits.
Chemical Industry: Serves as a source of barium ions and as an oxidizing agent in laboratory processes.
Safety
Signal Word: Danger
Hazard Statements:
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H272: May intensify fire; oxidizer
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H302: Harmful if swallowed
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H332: Harmful if inhaled
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H319: Causes serious eye irritation
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H373: May cause damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure
Precautionary Statements:
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P210: Keep away from heat, sparks, open flames, and hot surfaces. No smoking
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P220: Keep/Store away from combustible materials
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P260: Do not breathe dust or fumes
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P280: Wear protective gloves, clothing, eye protection, and face protection
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P301+P312: IF SWALLOWED: Call a POISON CENTER or doctor if you feel unwell
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P304+P340: IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing
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P305+P351+P338: IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing
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P501: Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local/regional/national regulations
First Aid Measures
Eye Contact: Rinse with water for at least 15 minutes. Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do. Seek medical attention.
Skin Contact: Wash thoroughly with soap and water. Remove contaminated clothing. If irritation persists, seek medical advice.
Inhalation: Move to fresh air and keep at rest. Seek medical attention if symptoms develop.
Ingestion: Rinse mouth with water. Do not induce vomiting. Seek immediate medical attention.
Handling and Storage
Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, away from combustible and flammable materials. Keep the container tightly closed.
Handling Precautions: Avoid generation of dust and contact with skin or eyes. Handle in a fume hood or with appropriate local exhaust. Use personal protective equipment.