Barium Sulphate

Barium sulfate, BaSO₄ is a odorless, crystalline solid thats insoluble in water.

Applications

Barium sulfate’s primary characteristic is its ability to block X-rays, making it essential for medical and industrial imaging.

Medical Imaging:	As a radiopaque contrast medium in X-ray and CT scans, particularly for imaging the gastrointestinal tract.
Industrial Applications:	In the manufacture of paints, coatings, and plastics, where it is used as a filler to enhance durability and opacity.
Oil and Gas Industry:	In drilling fluids to increase the density of the mud, helping to control pressure during drilling operations, reducing a chance of a blowout.
Chemical Industry:	As a precursor to other barium compounds and in the production of some types of glass and ceramics.