Barium Carbonate

Thermograde is a UK supplier of barium carbonate (BaCO3, CAS 513-77-9), held in stock at our Staffordshire site and available in quantities from 100g samples to bulk bags. Barium carbonate is a dense white powder that is insoluble in water but dissolves in hydrochloric and nitric acid. It occurs naturally as the mineral witherite, although most commercial barium carbonate is produced synthetically for consistent purity and particle size.

In ceramics, barium carbonate is used in glazes as a flux and as a matting and crystallising agent. It gives smooth satin and matt surfaces and, combined with copper and other colouring oxides, produces distinctive blues and greens that are difficult to achieve any other way. Brick and tile manufacturers add it to clay bodies to lock up soluble sulphates, which prevents the white scum (efflorescence) that can otherwise form on fired products.

Barium carbonate is also used in specialist glass, where it raises density and refractive index, and as a raw material for electroceramics such as barium titanate. On heating it breaks down into barium oxide and carbon dioxide at around 1,300°C and above, making it a convenient source of BaO for high temperature processes.

Barium carbonate is harmful if swallowed, so it should be handled with dust control and suitable protective equipment. A safety data sheet and certificate of analysis are available on request. For pricing, grades or bulk supply, contact our team using the form below.