Uses of Strontium Hydroxide

Strontium Hydroxide, or Sr(OH2), is a strong base with a pH of 13.5, and is most commonly found in colorless crystals. This strong base, as most bases are, is an extreme irritant of the respiratory tract if breathed, and of eyes and skin with contact. It is also dangerous if swallowed. However, even with such concerns, Strontium Hydroxide is a useful base for several different products.

Industry

• Due to its reactivity to air, its affinity to ionic bonding and ionization, and its properties as a strong base, Strontium Hydroxide has several industrial applications. These include being a plastic stabilizer and a paint drier. As a heavy alkaline earth metal, it acts as a catalyst to bind plastics together, and causes paint to form a film when applied to help dry it faster.

Strontium Salts/Ions

• Strontium Hydroxide is very soluble and highly reactive, which makes it a good source of the Strontium ion, or to make salts. It is often used in place of Strontium Chloride, or Sr(Cl2), when there is a fear of chlorine contamination in the reaction. These ions and salts have several applications. They're often used in pyrotechnics and tracer rounds, as when they are burned they emit a bright, deep red color.

Sugar Refinement

• Perhaps Strontium Hydroxide's most popular use is in the refinement of sugar. Since sugar is soluble in water and therefore cannot be washed to be refined, manufacturers bind it with Strontium Hydroxide first to form Strontium Saccharate. The saccharate is insoluble, which allows for impurities to be removed with water. After the wash, carbon dioxide is blown through, and the Strontium binds to it, forming Strontium carbonate and leaving refined sugar.