Not to be confused with Barium metaphosphate.
Barium phosphate
IupacnameBarium phosphate
OthernamesBarium orthophosphate

Barium phosphate, also known as barium orthophosphate, is an inorganic phosphate of barium with the molecular formula Ba3(PO4)2. It is usually found as a white, odorless powder which is insoluble in water.[1]

Synthesis

The general chemical reaction for the synthesis of barium phosphate powder, using the sol-gel process, is:[2]

3 Ba(NO3)2 + 2 NH4H2PO4 → Ba3(PO4)2 + 2 NH4NO3 + 4 HNO3

Barium phosphate is formed as a precipitate.

Structure

Its crystal structure is rhombohedral with a space group of R3m, identical to that of strontium phosphate.[3]

Properties

Barium phosphate exhibits properties such as high refractive index, low melting point, low glass transition temperature, high transparency to ultraviolet light, and high thermal expansion coefficient.[4]

Applications

Barium phosphate finds uses in industrial applications, including optical applications like preparation of glasses with special properties for pulsed lasers, and preparation of solders for glass to glass bonding. It can also be used in development of hydrogen / fuel sensors.[4]

See also

References

  1. ^ "Barium Phosphate: Versatile Uses and Key Benefits". Eureka. Retrieved 11 March 2025.[unreliable source?]
  2. ^ "Ba3(PO4)2 Photocatalyst for Efficient Photocatalytic Application". p. 9. Retrieved 23 April 2025.
  3. ^ Zachariasen, W. H. (2 November 1948). "The crystal structure of the normal orthophosphates of barium and strontium". Acta Crystallographica. 1 (5): 263–265. doi:10.1107/S0365110X48000697
  4. ^ "Barium Phosphate Powder". Sigma Aldrich. Retrieved 12 March 2025.