Bismuth subcarbonate
Description
Bismuth subcarbonate (CAS 5892-10-4) is an inorganic bismuth salt used across pharmaceutical and cosmetic manufacturing as an opacifying agent and mild antimicrobial active. It functions primarily as a protective and preservative ingredient in topical and oral formulations.
In pharmaceutical manufacturing, this compound is incorporated into antacid and gastrointestinal preparations, where it acts as a mucosal protectant and mild astringent in tablet and suspension form.
Cosmetic formulators use it as an opacifier and white pigment in pressed powders, foundations, and skin-care creams requiring a matte or coverage effect for high-end beauty products.
It also appears in wound-care and dermatological products where low-level antimicrobial activity against surface pathogens is required for effective skin protection and healing applications.
Industrial ceramic and glass applications utilize this material as a precursor for bismuth oxide, which is highly relevant to specialty coatings procurement and advanced material science.
The product is supplied as a fine white powder suitable for dry blending, tableting, and suspension manufacturing. Pharmaceutical-grade material is available to BP and Ph. Eur. specifications.
These standards support regulated drug product manufacturing and quality documentation requirements. Technical-grade powder is also offered for non-pharmaceutical industrial applications where certification is not required.
Physical Properties
| Boiling Point | decomposes [CRC10] |
| Density | 6.86 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.) |
| Appearance | White Fine powder |
| Color | White powder |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Form | Powder |
| Water Solubility | Practically insoluble in water, alcohol. Soluble in nitric acid, hydrochloric acid, concentrated acetic acid.Soluble in mineral acid and glacial acetic acid. Insoluble in water. |
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 2836992000 |
| Storage Class | 11 - Combustible Solids |
| WGK (Germany) | 3 |
Documentation
Other Names
dibismuth carbonate dioxide|1,3,5-trioxo-2,4-dioxa-1,5-dibismapentane|bis(oxobismuthanyl) carbonate|bismuth carbonate oxide|Bismuth(III) carbonate basic|Bismuth(III) carbonate|NCGC00165997-01|Bismuth carbonate oxide (Bi2(CO3)O2)
Related Products
Need a chemical? Get a quote within 24 hours.