Barium sulfate

Barium sulfate (CAS 7727-43-7), also sold as blanc fixe in its precipitated form, is an inorganic mineral used across coatings, plastics, and industrial manufacturing as a dense, chemically inert filler and opacifying agent.

Its combination of high specific gravity and near-zero reactivity makes it a preferred functional filler where brightness, weight, and chemical resistance all factor into material selection for various industrial applications.

In coatings and paints, this compound improves surface gloss, film hardness, and opacity without interfering with pigment systems. It is particularly effective in automotive primers and high-end decorative finishes.

Plastics compounders incorporate it as a weighting and stiffening filler in polypropylene, PVC, and engineering polymers. It is essential where dimensional stability and X-ray opacity are required for the final product.

The pharmaceutical and medical imaging sectors use high-purity grades as a radiocontrast agent in gastrointestinal diagnostic procedures. It functions as an inert extender filler that maintains compound viscosity in rubber.

Barium sulfate is available as a fine white powder in both precipitated and natural grades. Standard specifications include USP, BP, and Ph. Eur. for pharmaceutical applications and medical use.

Technical and coating grades are differentiated by particle size and brightness. Precipitated grades offer tighter particle size distribution and higher purity, while natural grades are used in industrial and construction applications.