Strontium carbonate

Strontium Carbonate and Nitric acid

Strontium carbonate (chemical formula: SrCO3) is an inorganic compound composed of strontium, carbon, and oxygen. It is a white, odorless, tasteless powder that is insoluble in water. Strontium carbonate is used in a variety of applications, including the production of ceramics, glass, metal alloys, and in the purification of sugar. It also serves as a common ingredient in the manufacture of fireworks and flares, where it imparts a bright red color to flames.

Properties

Strontium carbonate is a stable and non-flammable compound. It has a molecular weight of 147.63 g/mol and a melting point of approximately 1497°C. Being insoluble in water, it is often used in situations where a water-insoluble source of strontium is required.

Production

Strontium carbonate is typically produced by two methods. The first involves the carbonation of strontium hydroxide or strontium oxide with carbon dioxide:

Sr(OH)2 + CO2 → SrCO3 + H2O

SrO + CO2 → SrCO3

The second method involves the mining of the mineral strontianite, which is primarily composed of strontium carbonate. The strontianite is processed to remove impurities, resulting in pure strontium carbonate.

Applications

Ceramics and Glass

In the ceramics industry, strontium carbonate is used to introduce strontium into glazes and body formulations. It acts as a flux, lowering the melting point of the mixture, and can improve the strength and brightness of the ceramic. In glass manufacturing, strontium carbonate is added to improve the optical properties and durability of the glass.

Metal Alloys

Strontium carbonate is used in the production of certain metal alloys. It can act as a deoxidizer, removing oxygen from molten metals, and as a desulfurizer, removing sulfur impurities.

Electronics

In the electronics industry, strontium carbonate is used in the production of ferrites for permanent magnets and in the manufacture of cathode ray tubes (CRTs) to block X-ray emission.

Pyrotechnics

Strontium carbonate is a key ingredient in fireworks and flares, where it is used to produce a bright red color. It is preferred for its stability and insolubility, which make it safer to handle and use in pyrotechnic compositions.

Safety

Strontium carbonate is generally considered safe for handling and use in industrial applications. However, ingestion or inhalation of the powder can be harmful, and appropriate safety precautions should be taken, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and masks.

Environmental Impact

The environmental impact of strontium carbonate is minimal when handled and disposed of properly. However, as with all chemical compounds, care should be taken to prevent release into the environment, where it could affect water and soil quality.