BaO

BaO, or barium oxide, is an inorganic compound with the formula BaO. It is a white, crystalline solid that belongs to the group of alkaline earth metal oxides. It is typically prepared by calcination of barium carbonate (BaCO3) at high temperature, which releases carbon dioxide: BaCO3 → BaO + CO2. BaO adopts the rock-salt structure and has a very high melting point.

BaO is highly basic and reacts readily with water to form barium hydroxide: BaO + H2O → Ba(OH)2. It also reacts with acids to form soluble barium salts. In the presence of carbon dioxide, BaO slowly converts to BaCO3. Because of its strong reactivity with moisture, BaO is usually handled and stored as a dry powder under inert atmosphere or in sealed containers.

Applications include use as a flux and color modifier in glass and ceramic glazes, where it can influence melting behavior and opacity. It serves as a drying agent for gases and as a CO2 scavenger in certain industrial processes due to its reaction with CO2 to form BaCO3. BaO is a precursor to barium compounds such as BaTiO3 used in dielectric ceramics.

Safety: BaO is caustic and a strong irritant; contact with skin or eyes should be avoided. It reacts vigorously with water and moisture to form Ba(OH)2, which is corrosive. Barium compounds are toxic if ingested or inhaled; handle with appropriate PPE and store away from moisture and acids.