Triplumbic tetroxide

Triplumbic tetroxide, also known as red lead or minium, is a bright red or orange crystalline or amorphous pigment. Chemically, red lead is Pb3O4, or 2 PbO·PbO2. It is used in the manufacture of paint, glass, and ceramics.

History

Triplumbic tetroxide has been used as a pigment for thousands of years. It was commonly used in ancient Rome and in the Middle Ages for the production of red frescoes.

Production

Triplumbic tetroxide is produced by heating lead(II) oxide (PbO) in air at approximately 450-480°C. The reaction is as follows:

2 PbO + O2 → Pb3O4

Properties

Triplumbic tetroxide is a bright red or orange crystalline or amorphous solid. It is insoluble in water and alcohol, but soluble in acetic acid and hot hydrochloric acid. It is also a strong oxidizing agent.

Uses

Triplumbic tetroxide is used in the manufacture of paint, glass, and ceramics. It is also used in the production of batteries, rubber, and plastics. In addition, it is used as a corrosion inhibitor in some types of steel.

Health effects

Exposure to triplumbic tetroxide can cause serious health effects, including lead poisoning. Symptoms of lead poisoning include headache, abdominal pain, memory loss, and anemia. Long-term exposure can lead to neurological damage and kidney disease.

See also

• Lead(II) oxide
• Lead poisoning
• Red lead paint