barium carbonate

chemical compound

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Last updated

June 22, 2026

Quick Summary

Barium carbonate (BaCO₃) is a toxic, water-insoluble salt that occurs naturally as the mineral witherite. It is produced artificially as a white powder and is primarily used in the manufacturing of other barium compounds.1

This compound is also utilized in ceramics as a flux and in the production of optical glass. Additionally, it plays a role in removing sulfates from aqueous solutions. Barium itself is an alkaline-earth metal found in Group 2 of the periodic table, known for its density and reactivity.12

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barium
Compounds
About 75 percent of all barium carbonate (BaCO₃) goes into the manufacture of specialty glass, either to increase its refractive index or to provide radiation shielding in cathode-ray and television tubes. The carbonate also is used to make other barium chemicals, as a flux in ceramics, in the manufacture of…
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About 75 percent of all barium carbonate (BaCO₃) goes into the manufacture of specialty glass, either to increase its refractive index or to provide radiation shielding in cathode-ray and television tubes. The carbonate also is used to make other barium chemicals, as a flux in ceramics, in the manufacture of…
Read More