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Chemical Description

Barium carbonate is a white powder used in the production of ceramics, glass, and other materials.

Chemical Composition and Structure

Barium carbonate (BaCO3) is an inorganic carbonate salt of barium, existing in orthogonal, hexagonal, and cubic phases in nature. It is a mineral with various applications.

Fuel Cell Catalyst

Barium carbonate plays a role in fuel cell catalysts, contributing to their functionality.

Optical Glass

It is used in the production of optical glass, suggesting its importance in optics and related industries.

Ferroelectric Material Precursor

Barium carbonate serves as a precursor in the production of ferroelectric materials, indicating its relevance in materials science and electronics.

Use in Portland Cement

Barium carbonate interacts with the C3A phase within Portland cement, resulting in the formation of hemi and monocarboaluminate (HCA and MCA, respectively). This interaction influences the chemical and phase composition of cement, affecting its performance. Additionally, barium carbonate's ability to consume sulfate, forming barium sulfate, retards ettringite (AFt) formation, enhancing the cement's resistance against sulfate attack.

Comparison with Calcium Carbonate

Barium carbonate exhibits higher solubility compared to calcium carbonate (CaCO3), enhancing its substitution reaction within hydrated cement. This higher solubility and reactivity make nano-sized barium carbonate (NBC) a potentially effective additive for Portland cement.