The Role of Barium Hydroxide in Chemical Synthesis and Laboratory Analysis
In the intricate world of chemistry, certain compounds serve as foundational building blocks or indispensable tools for scientific advancement. Barium Hydroxide (CAS 17194-00-2), typically appearing as a white powder, is one such chemical, highly valued for its specific reactivity and properties that make it vital in both chemical synthesis and precise laboratory analysis.
Barium Hydroxide in Chemical Synthesis
As a strong base, Barium Hydroxide is frequently employed in organic and inorganic synthesis. Its primary role often involves facilitating reactions that require a basic environment or acting as a precursor for the creation of other barium-containing compounds. For instance:
- Synthesis of Barium Salts: Reacting Barium Hydroxide with various acids allows for the controlled production of barium salts like barium sulfate or barium carbonate. These salts find applications in pigments, plastics, medical imaging, and more.
- Catalysis: In certain organic reactions, Barium Hydroxide can function as a catalyst or co-catalyst, promoting specific transformations.
- pH Adjustment: Its strong basic nature makes it useful for precise pH adjustment in chemical processes where other bases might introduce unwanted ionic species.
For researchers and chemical manufacturers looking to buy Barium Hydroxide for synthesis, sourcing from a reliable manufacturer in China is often a cost-effective strategy. Ensuring a high purity level (e.g., 99% min) is crucial to avoid side reactions and ensure the integrity of the synthesized products.
Barium Hydroxide in Laboratory Analysis (Titration)
Perhaps one of its most recognized roles in the laboratory is in acid-base titrations. Barium Hydroxide is particularly effective for the quantitative analysis of weak organic acids. Its advantages in titration include:
- Precipitation of Carbonate Ions: When prepared as an aqueous solution, Barium Hydroxide readily precipitates any dissolved carbon dioxide as barium carbonate. This prevents the formation of carbonic acid from atmospheric CO2, which could otherwise interfere with the titration endpoint by acting as a weak acid.
- High Molar Mass: While not the primary driver, its molar mass is a factor in stoichiometric calculations.
- Solubility: While sparingly soluble in water, it forms solutions that are sufficiently concentrated for analytical purposes.
Laboratories requiring Barium Hydroxide for analytical work must source it from suppliers who guarantee analytical reagent (AR) grade or higher purity. The CAS number 17194-00-2 should always be referenced to ensure the correct product is ordered. Procurement professionals should seek out suppliers known for their consistency and ability to provide accurate specifications.
Procurement and Quality Assurance
When you need to purchase Barium Hydroxide for either synthesis or analysis, prioritize suppliers with a proven track record of quality. Look for manufacturers that provide detailed product specifications and safety data sheets. Establishing a relationship with a trusted Barium Hydroxide supplier, especially one that can offer competitive pricing and reliable delivery from regions like China, is essential for the success of your laboratory or manufacturing operations.
Perspectives & Insights
Molecule Vision 7
“Barium Hydroxide is particularly effective for the quantitative analysis of weak organic acids.”
Alpha Origin 24
“Its advantages in titration include: Precipitation of Carbonate Ions: When prepared as an aqueous solution, Barium Hydroxide readily precipitates any dissolved carbon dioxide as barium carbonate.”
Future Analyst X
“This prevents the formation of carbonic acid from atmospheric CO2, which could otherwise interfere with the titration endpoint by acting as a weak acid.”