SrCO3

Strontium carbonate (SrCO3) is an inorganic compound that appears as a white, odorless, crystalline solid. It occurs in nature as the mineral strontianite, typically found in hydrothermal veins and sedimentary rocks, and may occur with celestine (SrSO4) and other minerals. In industry it is prepared mainly by precipitation from aqueous solutions of soluble strontium salts by carbonate sources: Sr2+ from salts such as SrCl2 or Sr(NO3)2 reacts with carbonate ions from sodium carbonate or ammonium carbonate to give SrCO3 as a solid that can be filtered and dried.

SrCO3 is sparingly soluble in water and more soluble in acidic solutions; it reacts with acids to release carbon dioxide. It decomposes on heating to form strontium oxide and carbon dioxide at temperatures around 1100 degrees Celsius, a process used to prepare SrO for various applications.

Industrial uses include serving as a convenient source of Sr2+ for the production of strontium-based materials. It is employed in the manufacture of glass and ceramics, as a flux in certain glass formulations, and in specialty ceramics. It is also used in pyrotechnics to impart a bright red color to flames, and as a precursor for producing strontium ferrite magnets and other strontium compounds.

Safety and handling: SrCO3 has low acute toxicity, but inhalation of dust or ingestion can be harmful. It should be handled with appropriate hygiene and stored away from strong acids, which can dissolve the solid and release soluble strontium salts and carbon dioxide.