(barium sulfate is)
Barium sulfate is a chemically inert compound with a high density of 4.5 g/cm³, making it indispensable in industries requiring radiopacity or weight enhancement. Unlike soluble salts, barium sulfate is
insoluble in water, a property leveraged in medical diagnostics and oil drilling fluids. Its stability under extreme temperatures (melting point: 1,580°C) ensures reliability in applications ranging from plastics to coatings. Recent market data shows a 6.8% CAGR growth (2023–2030), driven by demand in Asia-Pacific manufacturing hubs.
Barium sulfate liquid suspensions achieve 99.9% purity in contrast agents for X-ray imaging due to low solubility and non-toxicity. In industrial settings, its refractive index (1.64) enhances polymer opacity by 40% compared to calcium carbonate. A 2022 study revealed that coatings with barium sulfate exhibit 30% higher UV resistance and 18% improved tensile strength. These metrics position it as a superior additive for automotive paints and aerospace composites.
Manufacturer | Purity (%) | Particle Size (µm) | Price/Ton (USD) | Application Focus |
---|---|---|---|---|
Company A | 99.5 | 2–5 | 1,200 | Medical |
Company B | 98.8 | 10–15 | 850 | Industrial |
Company C | 99.9 | 1–3 | 1,450 | High-end Polymers |
Tailored barium sulfate liquid products address niche requirements, such as viscosity-controlled suspensions for 3D-printed ceramics or low-sedimentation fluids for deep-well drilling. A case study with a European automaker demonstrated a 22% reduction in paint defects by using a bespoke 0.8–1.2 µm particle size distribution. Customization options include pH stabilization (5.5–7.5), surface treatments for hydrophobicity, and API-compliant formulations.
In healthcare, barium sulfate is soluble in water only when combined with specific chelating agents for safe ingestion. Over 75 million gastrointestinal exams annually rely on its radiopaque properties. Industrially, oil refineries utilize 15–20% barium sulfate liquid slurries to reduce pipe corrosion by 35% in high-sulfur environments. A 2023 project in the Gulf of Mexico achieved a 12% faster drilling rate using barium sulfate-weighted muds.
Despite its low toxicity, barium sulfate requires OSHA-compliant PPE during handling due to inhalation risks for fine powders. Wastewater discharge must maintain
Barium sulfate is irreplaceable in applications demanding density, inertness, and cost efficiency. Its unique balance of properties—insolubility, thermal stability, and compatibility with organic matrices—supports innovations in renewable energy and nanotechnology. As industries prioritize sustainable materials, barium sulfate’s recyclability (92% recovery rate in glass production) positions it for long-term relevance.
(barium sulfate is)
A: No, barium sulfate is not soluble in water. Its low solubility makes it useful in medical imaging and industrial applications where stability is required.
A: Barium sulfate liquid is primarily used as a radiopaque contrast agent in X-ray imaging. It helps visualize the gastrointestinal tract during diagnostic procedures.
A: Barium sulfate’s strong ionic bonds and high lattice energy prevent dissociation in water. This property ensures it remains chemically inert in aqueous environments.
A: Yes, when purified for medical use, barium sulfate liquid is safe for ingestion in controlled doses. However, improper use can lead to health risks.
A: Liquid barium sulfate is a suspension of fine particles in water, used for imaging. Solid barium sulfate is a dry, crystalline compound employed in manufacturing and coatings.