báriumszulfátot

Bariumszulfátot is the Hungarian name for barium sulfate, a chemical compound with the formula BaSO4. It is a white, crystalline solid that is insoluble in water and most organic solvents. Barium sulfate occurs naturally as the mineral barite, which is the principal commercial source of barium.

This compound has a variety of important applications. In medicine, it is used as a radiocontrast agent for X-ray imaging of the digestive system. When ingested or administered rectally, its high density allows it to absorb X-rays, making the gastrointestinal tract visible on radiographs. It is also used in some industrial processes, such as a filler in plastics and paints, and as a drilling fluid additive in the oil and gas industry. Its inertness and high density make it useful in these applications.

Barium sulfate is produced commercially by reacting soluble barium salts, such as barium chloride or barium sulfide, with sulfuric acid or a soluble sulfate. The precipitation of insoluble barium sulfate is a straightforward method for its purification and production. Despite its widespread use, care must be taken when handling barium compounds as soluble barium salts are toxic. However, barium sulfate itself is considered non-toxic due to its insolubility.