Barium acetate (CAS 543-80-6)

Barium acetate, represented by the chemical formula Ba(C2H3O2)2, is a white crystalline compound that dissolves readily in water and has distinct applications primarily in the chemical and materials science industries. This salt is derived from the reaction of barium carbonate or barium sulfide with acetic acid, resulting in a compound that exhibits both the typical properties of a barium salt and those of an acetate. In chemical synthesis, barium acetate serves as an important precursor for the preparation of other barium compounds. For example, it is used to synthesize barium titanate (BaTiO3), a ferroelectric material, by reacting with titanium oxide sources in sol-gel processes. This material is significant in the production of capacitors and piezoelectric devices due to its high dielectric constant and piezoelectric properties. Furthermore, barium acetate is utilized in the fabrication of optical materials and glasses, where it helps to modify optical properties and enhance the refractive indices of glass formulations. In research settings, the reactivity of barium acetate with various organic and inorganic compounds is studied to explore new chemical pathways and material properties. Additionally, the role of barium acetate in green chemistry has been explored, particularly in the synthesis of barium-based catalysts that are used for environmental remediation and organic transformations, showcasing its utility beyond simple applications. This compound is handled with care due to barium′s toxicity, ensuring that its use in laboratory and industrial applications adheres to strict safety protocols.