Lead Oxide Micron Powder (PbO, 99.99%, 325 Mesh)
Technical Specifications:
- Chemical Formula: PbO
- Purity: 99.99% (high purity)
- Particle Size: 325 mesh (approximately 45 µm or smaller, depending on the specific sieve)
- Appearance: Yellow to light brown powder
- Density: Approximately 9.53 g/cm³
- Melting Point: 888°C (1,632°F)
- Boiling Point: 1,600°C (2,912°F)
- Molecular Weight: 223.2 g/mol
- Solubility: Insoluble in water, soluble in acids like hydrochloric acid (HCl) and nitric acid (HNO₃)
- Crystal Structure: Orthorhombic (or sometimes tetragonal in some polymorphs)
Applications:
- Lead-Acid Batteries:
- Lead Oxide (PbO) is a critical component in the manufacture of lead-acid batteries, where it is used in the production of lead oxide pastes for the positive plates in these batteries. Lead oxide is key to achieving the necessary charge/discharge cycles and energy storage capacity in applications such as automotive batteries, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), and solar energy storage systems.
- Pigments in Paints and Coatings:
- Lead Oxide is used as a pigment in various applications, primarily in paint production, where it is often referred to as yellow lead oxide or massicot. It provides a strong yellow hue and is used in paints for industrial coatings, automotive finishes, and coatings for metal structures. It also enhances the durability and weather resistance of the coatings.
- Glass Manufacturing:
- Lead Oxide is a key ingredient in the production of lead glass and crystal glass (such as lead crystal). The addition of lead oxide improves the optical properties of the glass, such as its clarity, shine, and refractive index, making it suitable for fine glassware, optical lenses, and telecommunication glass fibers.
- Ceramics:
- Lead Oxide is utilized in the production of ceramics, especially in glaze formulations and ceramic bodies. It enhances the smoothness, hardness, and gloss of ceramic products. It is commonly used in porcelain, tile production, and decorative ceramics.
- Electronics and Semiconductors:
- Lead Oxide is used in electronic components, particularly in the manufacture of semiconductors. It is used in the production of cathode ray tubes (CRTs) and vacuum tubes due to its excellent electron emission properties.
- Lead oxide is also used in the production of varistors (voltage-dependent resistors), which help in surge protection and voltage regulation in electronic circuits.
- Soldering Materials:
- Lead Oxide is used in the soldering process for electronics and jewelry manufacturing. It forms part of the flux used in soldering operations, facilitating the melting and bonding of metal parts and preventing oxidation during the heating process.
- Lead Stabilizers in PVC:
- Lead Oxide is used as a stabilizer in polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastics. It helps improve the thermal stability and resistance to degradation of PVC products, which are widely used in construction (pipes, flooring), automotive parts, and electrical cables.
- Photographic and Radiographic Imaging:
- Lead Oxide is employed in radiographic imaging and X-ray technology. It is used in the production of X-ray shielding materials, helping to protect against radiation exposure. It can also be used in photographic films for capturing X-ray images in medical and industrial diagnostics.
- Thermal and Radiation Shielding:
- Due to its high density, Lead Oxide is an effective material for radiation shielding in medical and industrial applications. It is used to protect against gamma rays and X-rays in radiation therapy rooms, nuclear reactors, and radiology departments in hospitals.
- Pyrotechnics and Explosives:
- Lead Oxide is used in pyrotechnic formulations and explosives. It can serve as a fuel source or oxidizing agent in certain types of explosives and firework compositions, where it contributes to the overall chemical reaction and provides energy release.
- Battery Manufacturing and Lead Alloy Production:
- In addition to lead-acid batteries, Lead Oxide is a key component in the production of lead alloys. These alloys are used in a variety of industrial applications, such as in the construction of lead-containing batteries, soldering materials, and metal components in various industries.
- Chemical Reactions and Synthesis:
- Lead Oxide serves as a reactant in various chemical reactions and synthesis processes. It is often involved in the production of other lead-based chemicals, including lead(IV) oxide, lead acetate, and lead chromate, which find applications in diverse industries ranging from manufacturing to agriculture.
Lead Oxide Micron Powder (PbO, 99.99%, 325 Mesh) is a high-purity, fine powder with numerous industrial and commercial applications. It is particularly important in the battery and electronics industries but also plays a role in paint, ceramics, and radiation shielding. Due to its high density, chemical stability, and unique properties, it continues to be an essential material in various technological, industrial, and consumer applications. However, given its toxicity, appropriate safety measures must be taken when handling and using lead oxide.
