by Strontium nitrate, with the chemical formula Sr(NO3)2, is an inorganic salt that consists of strontium and nitrate ions. It is a colorless crystalline solid that finds a wide variety of applications due to its unique physical and chemical properties.
Discovery and Production
Strontium nitrate was first synthesized in 1808 by Humphry Davy through the reaction of strontium carbonate with nitric acid. Commercially, it is produced by dissolving strontium carbonate or hydroxide in nitric acid followed by evaporation and crystallization. After crystallization, strontium nitrate is obtained as colorless orthorhombic crystals or a white powder.
The global production of Strontium Nitrate is around 50,000 tons per year. The major producers include China, Germany and Mexico. It is purified through recrystallization to obtain high purity strontium nitrate suitable for various industrial applications.
Physical and Chemical Properties
Strontium nitrate has good solubility in water. One liter of water can dissolve around 435 grams of strontium nitrate at room temperature. It dissolves in other solvents like ethanol as well.
When heated, strontium nitrate first loses its water of crystallization around 130°C to form anhydrous strontium nitrate. Upon further heating, it decomposes to release oxygen and nitrogen oxides along with strontia (SrO) around 550°C.
Strontium nitrate is hygroscopic in nature which means it absorbs moisture from air quite easily. It forms hydrated crystals with varying water molecules like Sr(NO3)2·4H2O depending on the conditions. Strontium nitrate displays paramagnetic behavior and stable in normal conditions. However, it may ignite combustible materials on strong heating.
Uses of Strontium Nitrate
Pyrotechnics: Due to its decomposition properties releasing oxygen, strontium nitrate found major usage in the production of pyrotechnic and flammable mixtures. It is used to form many colors in fireworks like red and yellow.
Metal Plating: Dilute solutions of strontium nitrate act as excellent electrolytes for plating metals like chromium, tin and zinc due to smooth deposition.
Analytical Reagent: In laboratories, it is used as an analytical reagent for quantitative chemical analysis and as an oxidizing agent in volumetric titrations.
Welding Rods: Strontium salts including strontium nitrate are added to welding rods to improve their welding characteristics. They control the arc and reduce spatter formation.
Luminophores: Strontium nitrate phosphors are used in cathode ray tubes and fluorescent lamps for their long persistence phosphorescence.
Other uses: It also finds use in vacuum tubes, production of SrO for ceramic capacitors, antifreeze solutions, fertilizers etc. Ongoing research explores strontium nitrate for its potential in energy applications.
Health Effects and Safety Measures
As per chemical safety data, strontium nitrate is slightly toxic if ingested or inhaled. Symptoms may include vomiting, nausea and diarrhea. Prolonged exposure may cause irritation to eyes and respiratory tract. However, it does not pose significant toxicity when handled properly.
Few safety measures must be followed while handling strontium nitrate:
– Use in well ventilated areas and avoid inhaling dust or fumes.
– Wear suitable gloves, goggles and protective clothes.
– Avoid contact with eyes, skin or clothing. Rinse thoroughly in case of accidental exposure.
– Store in airtight containers away from direct heat or moisture at temperature below 30°C.
– Dispose empty containers as per hazardous chemical waste disposal guidelines.
– In case of fire, use dry chemical powder or carbon dioxide fire extinguishers.
With a wide variety of applications in pyrotechnics, welding, plating and analytical reagents, strontium nitrate has proven to be an indispensable inorganic salt. Although it requires basic safety precautions during usage and storage, strontium nitrate is quite stable and relatively less toxic compared to other nitrate compounds. Ongoing research also explores its potential in newer emerging applications. With suitable handling, strontium nitrate will continue playing a vital supporting role in science and technology.
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1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
