Barium

Barium is a soft, silvery-white alkaline earth metal with the chemical symbol Ba and atomic number 56. It belongs to Group 2 of the periodic table and has a molecular weight of 137.33 g/mol. This highly reactive metal oxidizes readily in air and must be stored under inert conditions. Barium is never found in its pure metallic form in nature due to its high reactivity with oxygen and water.

Barium is a soft, silvery-white metal with a density of 3.51 g/cm³ and melting point of 727°C. It exhibits high reactivity with air, forming barium oxide, and reacts vigorously with water to produce barium hydroxide and hydrogen gas. The metal is malleable and has good electrical conductivity. Due to its reactivity, pure barium tarnishes quickly when exposed to moisture and oxygen.

Barium is primarily used in the production of barium compounds for various industrial applications. It serves as a getter in vacuum tubes to remove trace gases, in the manufacturing of specialized alloys, and as a component in fireworks to produce green colors. Barium compounds are widely used in drilling fluids for oil wells, medical contrast agents, and as additives in paints and ceramics.

Barium handling requires strict safety protocols due to its high reactivity and potential toxicity. Personnel must wear appropriate personal protective equipment including gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing. Work should be conducted in well-ventilated areas or under inert atmosphere to prevent oxidation. Avoid contact with water and moisture, and ensure proper grounding to prevent static discharge during handling operations.

Barium must be stored under inert atmosphere or in mineral oil to prevent oxidation and reaction with moisture. Storage areas should be cool, dry, and well-ventilated, away from water sources and incompatible materials such as acids and oxidizing agents. Containers should be tightly sealed and made of appropriate materials. Regular inspection of storage conditions is essential to maintain product integrity and safety.

Immediate action is required in case of barium contact. For skin contact, remove contaminated clothing and wash affected area thoroughly with soap and water. In case of eye contact, rinse immediately with plenty of clean water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention. If inhaled, move person to fresh air and seek medical evaluation. Never induce vomiting if ingested - seek immediate medical attention.

Barium disposal must comply with local and European waste regulations due to its reactive nature and environmental impact. Small quantities should be carefully oxidized or converted to stable compounds before disposal. Never dispose of barium in regular waste streams or pour down drains. Contact licensed waste management companies specialized in reactive metal disposal and follow all applicable environmental protection guidelines and documentation requirements.

Barium is classified under ADR Class 4.3 (substances which, in contact with water, emit flammable gases), Packing Group II. Transportation requires appropriate UN specification packaging designed for reactive metals, proper labeling with hazard diamonds, and compliance with dangerous goods regulations. Shipments must be accompanied by proper documentation and handled by trained personnel familiar with dangerous goods transport requirements.

Barium is regulated under various European frameworks including REACH registration requirements and CLP classification regulations. While not currently listed as a SVHC (Substance of Very High Concern), its reactive nature and potential health impacts require compliance with occupational safety standards. Industrial users must follow workplace exposure limits and implement appropriate risk management measures according to safety data sheets and regulatory guidance.

Barium is available through OYSI, a trusted European distributor of technical chemicals specializing in reactive metals and specialty compounds. OYSI provides high-quality barium with proper documentation, safety data sheets, and regulatory compliance support. As experienced chemical distributors, they ensure appropriate packaging, handling, and delivery throughout Europe while meeting all transportation and safety requirements for reactive metals.