Barium Nitrate is also referred to as Barium Dinitrate or Barium salt with the chemical formula Ba(NO3)2. It is basically an inorganic salt that we commonly use in the manufacturing of pyrotechnics.

• Properties

Appearance : White crystalline powder

Melting point : 592 °C

Water solubility : Soluble

Density: 3.24 g/cm³

• Applications of Barium Nitrate

1. In the Fireworks Industry

Barium nitrate is a prised compound when it comes to the fireworks industry because it can help in the production of green flames. Apart from just fireworks, one can also perceive this compound’s use in several pyrotechnic displays as well. Just as barium nitrate produce green flames; sodium chloride leads to yellow flame formation, while copper chloride turns blue during combustion. Therefore, often all of these are used together in fireworks.

2. In Glasswork Factories

Barium nitrate is a crucial product in the creation of high quality glass items. The oxygen molecule attached to this compound can help keep the glass items free from discolouration. Additionally, such glassware is exceptionally clear. Experts also use this compound when producing optical glasses. 

3. Military Usage

Barium nitrate helps in the production of tracer bullets. When fired, one can follow the exact route that the bullet takes, thanks to a Ba(NO3)2 charge placed right at the end of such ammunition. This charge lights when such bullets are fired from a gun. The smoke from this portion is visible, precisely indicating the bullet’s path.

Additionally, barium nitrate is one of the primary compounds in the creation of flares, used to signal troops to a certain location. Lastly, explosive detonators contain this compound as well. Similarly, due to its oxidising nature, barium nitrate is an integral component for explosives.  

4. Rodenticide

Simply knowing the colour of barium nitrate is not sufficient. One must also understand its other types of applications. For instance, apart from its military and fireworks usage, this compound is also a reliable rodenticide. Leaving it out in the open at your home will prevent various rodents, such as mice and rats from entering or staying inside the premises. 

5. Paints

The paints on your home walls are simply a mixture of various chemical compounds. Barium nitrate is just one of these compounds. Notably, most paints would not exist without this specific nitrate of barium since it is often used as a primary constituent.

In some cases, this compound can also be used to produce propellants of some types. Nevertheless, its primary usage remains restricted to the military and pyrotechnic works.