Application
What is barium sulphate used for?
Barium sulfate, often referred to as barite, has several important uses:
Medical Imaging:
It's commonly used as a contrast agent in medical imaging techniques such as X-rays and CT scans. Barium sulfate is ingested or administered as an enema to enhance the visibility of the gastrointestinal tract in diagnostic procedures.
Industrial Applications:
Barium sulfate is used in various industrial applications, including as a component in oil well drilling fluids to increase the density and suspend solids. It's also utilized in the production of paints, coatings, plastics, rubber, and ceramics.
Radiation Shielding:
Due to its high density and opacity to X-rays and gamma rays, barium sulfate is employed in radiation shielding applications. It's used in the construction of barriers and enclosures to protect against radiation exposure in facilities such as hospitals, nuclear power plants, and laboratories.
Manufacturing:
Barium sulfate is utilized in the manufacturing of various products, including paper, textiles, adhesives, and explosives.
Overall, barium sulfate plays a crucial role in several industries due to its unique properties and versatility.