What is strontium carbonate?

Strontium carbonate is a white, odorless powder that is commonly used in the production of ceramics, glass, and fireworks. It is also used as a raw material in the manufacturing of strontium compounds, such as strontium nitrate and strontium oxide.

Strontium carbonate has a chemical formula of SrCO3 and a molecular weight of 147.63 g/mol. It has a melting point of 1474°C and is insoluble in water.

One of the main applications of strontium carbonate is in the production of ceramic glazes, where it acts as a flux, helping to lower the melting point of the glaze and improve its flow. It is also used in the manufacturing of television cathode ray tubes (CRTs) to absorb X-rays and reduce radiation exposure.

In the fireworks industry, strontium carbonate is used as a colorant to produce red flames. When strontium carbonate is burned, it emits a bright red flame due to the presence of strontium ions in the combustion process.

Overall, strontium carbonate is a versatile compound with a wide range of industrial applications, particularly in the fields of ceramics, glass, and pyrotechnics.