Barium hydroxide

Synonyms

Barium hydroxide (Ba(OH)2); Barium dihydroxide; Barium hydroxide lime; Caustic baryta; [ChemIDplus] UN1564

Category

Metals, Inorganic Compounds

Description

White solid; [HSDB] Fine white crystals; Soluble in water; [MSDSonline]

Sources/Uses

Used as a vulcanizing agent (synthetic rubber), corrosion inhibitor, drilling fluid additive, boiler scale remedy; motor oil additive, plastics stabilizer, pigment dispersant, and papermaking additive; Also used to refine animal and vegetable oils, to soften water; to protect limestone objects from deterioration, and to manufacture alkali and glass; [HSDB]

Comments

Aqueous solutions may cause severe burns to eyes and skin irritation; [HSDB] A corrosive substance that can cause injury to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract; Inhalation may cause chemical pneumonitis and pulmonary edema; [MSDSonline] See "Barium."

Biomedical References

0.5 mg/m3, as Ba

0.5 mg/m3, as Ba

0.5 mg/m3, as Ba, inhalable fraction(soluble compds)

50 mg/m3, as Ba

Explanatory Notes

The Guide in the Emergency Response Guidebook is for "Barium compound, n.o.s."

Yes

Skin burns

Processes

Industrial Processes with risk of exposure:

• Glass Manufacturing
• Petroleum Production and Refining
• Pulp and Paper Processing