BaCO3

BaCO3, or barium carbonate, is an inorganic compound consisting of barium ions coordinated with carbonate groups. In its natural mineral form it occurs as witherite. It is a white, odorless solid, typically appearing as a powder or crystalline material.

The compound is sparingly soluble in water and readily reacts with acids to release carbon dioxide and form soluble barium salts. Its solid is relatively stable at ambient conditions, but it thermally decomposes at high temperatures to yield barium oxide and carbon dioxide. BaCO3 is insoluble in water but dissolves in strong acids such as hydrochloric acid or sulfuric acid.

Natural occurrence and production: BaCO3 occurs in geological deposits associated with lead and zinc minerals, where it is mined as a source of barium. Industrially, it is prepared by precipitating BaCO3 from solutions of soluble barium salts using carbonate sources, such as sodium carbonate, or by passing carbon dioxide through solutions of barium hydroxide. This precipitation principle is also used to synthesize BaCO3 for various applications.

Uses: BaCO3 serves as a source of Ba2+ for chemical synthesis and as a flux in ceramics and glassmaking. It is used as a white filler or pigment in plastics, rubber, and coatings, and as a starting material for producing other barium compounds, including BaO and Ba(OH)2. Its relatively low solubility in water makes it less bioavailable than many other barium salts, though handling should still follow appropriate safety precautions.

Safety: Barium compounds can be toxic if ingested or inhaled, and BaCO3 should be handled with care to avoid exposure. Although the solid is poorly soluble, proper storage and handling protect against potential hazards in industrial and laboratory settings.