Bismuth
Description
Bismuth (CAS 7440-69-9), abbreviated Bi, is a post-transition metal sourced and traded in elemental form for use across pharmaceutical synthesis, polymer manufacturing, and metallurgical processing.
It functions as a low-toxicity alternative to lead and other heavy metals in applications where regulatory pressure or end-product safety requirements demand cleaner substitutes.
In pharmaceuticals, elemental bismuth serves as a precursor to active bismuth salts and compounds used in gastrointestinal formulations and antimicrobial preparations.
Polymer manufacturers incorporate it into flame-retardant systems where halogen-free compliance is required, particularly in wire, cable, and electronic component housings.
Bismuth is also used as a catalyst or catalyst precursor in oxidation and condensation reactions within specialty chemical production for various industrial sectors.
In metallurgy, it acts as a lead replacement in free-machining alloys and low-melting fusible alloys used in safety devices and precision casting applications.
Bismuth is supplied as ingots, shots, granules, and high-purity pellets to suit different downstream processing requirements and specific manufacturing workflows.
Standard commercial grades range from technical purity to high-purity material for pharmaceutical and electronic applications where particle size control is critical.
Physical Properties
| Melting Point | 271 °C |
| Boiling Point | 1579 °C |
| Density | 9.78 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20 °C |
| Appearance | Bismuth is a pinkish-silver, hard, brittle metal. It is found as the free metal in ores, such as bismutite and bismuthinite and in lead ores. |
| Color | Silver-white or red |
| Form | shot |
| Water Solubility | insoluble |
| Vapor Pressure | <0.1 mm Hg ( 20 °C) |
Safety & Handling (Learn More)
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 81060010 |
| UN Number | 3264 |
| ADR Class | 8 |
| Packing Group | III |
| Storage Class | 11 - Combustible Solids |
| WGK (Germany) | 1 |
Documentation
Other Names
element 83|83Bi|Bismuth, elemental|Colitis|Wismut|Bismuth Metallicum|RefChem:388836|BISMUTHUM METALLICUM|Bi
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