Buying Guide: Barium Nitrate (Ba(NO₃)₂)

If Barium Nitrate is an essential part of your chemical, manufacturing, or pyrotechnic operations, this guide will provide a comprehensive reference to help you understand its properties, uses, and key procurement considerations.

Let’s explore the fundamentals, characteristics, and industrial applications of this versatile compound.

What is Barium Nitrate?

Barium Nitrate is an inorganic compound composed of barium, nitrogen, and oxygen. It is typically found as a white crystalline powder that is odorless and highly reactive, especially when combined with reducing agents or fuels.

This nitrate salt is widely used in pyrotechnics, ceramics, glass manufacturing, explosives, and chemical synthesis due to its strong oxidizing properties and its ability to produce bright green flames when burned.

How to Identify Barium Nitrate

Common Identifiers and Forms:

• Appearance: White crystalline powder or granules

• CAS Number: 10022-31-8

• Molecular Formula: Ba(NO₃)₂

• Molecular Weight: 261.34 g/mol

• EINECS No.: 233-020-5

• Solubility: Soluble in water, insoluble in alcohol

• Odor: Odorless

Chemical Properties of Barium Nitrate

Applications of Barium Nitrate

1. Pyrotechnics & Fireworks

• Main oxidizer in green firework compositions

• Provides intense green coloration when ignited

• Used in signal flares and tracer ammunition

2. Explosives & Military

• Ingredient in flash powders, explosive mixtures, and military-grade detonators

• Acts as a powerful oxidizer to support combustion

3. Glass & Ceramics

• Improves thermal resistance and optical quality in specialty glass

• Used in ceramic glazes to enhance brightness and finish

4. Chemical Synthesis

• Intermediate in the production of other barium compounds

• Used in laboratory reagents for qualitative and quantitative analysis

5. Electronics & Magnetics

• Involved in the production of barium titanate and barium ferrite for capacitors and magnetic materials

Types & Grades of Barium Nitrate

Is Barium Nitrate a Reducing Agent?

No. Barium Nitrate is a strong oxidizing agent, not a reducing agent. It releases oxygen during combustion, supporting rapid oxidation of other materials, making it highly effective in energetic applications.

Is Barium Nitrate Toxic?

Yes, Barium Nitrate is toxic if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin in significant amounts. It can interfere with muscle function and cardiovascular health. Always handle with care.

Safety Tips:

• Wear gloves, goggles, and masks when handling

• Work in well-ventilated areas

• Store in sealed, labeled containers away from flammable substances

• Refer to the MSDS for detailed safety instructions

Is Barium Nitrate Flammable or Explosive?

Barium Nitrate itself is not flammable, but it enhances combustion when combined with fuels or reducing agents. It poses a fire and explosion hazard under certain conditions:

• Keep away from organic materials and strong acids

• Avoid impact, heat, or static discharge during handling

Barium Nitrate vs Other Barium Compounds

Purity Standards

• Industrial Grade: 98–99%

• Reagent Grade: ≥99.5%

• Electronic Grade: High-purity (on request)

Certifications:

• ISO9001 Quality System

• REACH, RoHS (as applicable)

• COA, MSDS, TDS available on demand

Price & Supplier Considerations

Factors That Influence Price:

• Grade and purity

• Packaging size and material

• Country of origin (China, India, Europe)

• Order quantity and delivery terms

Choosing a Reliable Supplier:

• Request COA, MSDS, TDS

• Ensure compliance with ISO and REACH

• Confirm proper safety packaging and labeling

• Work with suppliers offering global logistics support

How to Buy Barium Nitrate

1. Define Application

   • Fireworks, ceramics, electronics, or lab-grade use?

2. Select the Grade

   • Match to your need: Reagent, Industrial, or Electronic

3. Request Documentation

   • COA, MSDS, REACH Certificate, and more

4. Trial Sample

   • Recommended for testing in your specific formulation

5. Packaging Options

   • 25kg HDPE or paper bags with liners

   • Jumbo bags for bulk (500kg / 1000kg)

6. Choose a Trusted Supplier

   • With proven track record and responsive service

Conclusion

Barium Nitrate is an indispensable compound in pyrotechnics, glass production, ceramics, and chemical synthesis due to its strong oxidizing properties and versatility. Whether you need it for technical applications or high-purity uses, it’s vital to choose the right grade and supplier.

To ensure performance and safety:

• Select the correct grade and purity level

• Handle according to MSDS guidelines

• Work with reliable, certified suppliers