Antimony Trioxide
Antimony Trioxide (or antimony oxide) is the inorganic compound with the formula Sb2O3. Derived principally from stibnite ore (Antimony Trisulfide), which is most often mined in China, Mexico, Bolivia, and the western U.S. to name a few. It is found in nature as the minerals valentinite and senarmontite. Antimony Trioxide is the most important commercial compound of antimony.
Like most polymeric oxides, Sb2O3 dissolves in aqueous solutions with hydrolysis.
Uses for Antimony Trioxide
The main application is as flame retardant synergist in combination with halogenated materials. The combination of the halides and the antimony being key to the flame-retardant action for polymers, helping to form less flammable chars. Such flame retardants are found in electrical apparatus, textiles, leather, and coatings.
Other applications:
- An opacifying agent for glasses, ceramics and enamels.
- Some specialty pigments contain antimony.
- Antimony trioxide is a useful catalyst in the production of polyethylene terephthalate (PET plastic) and the vulcanization of rubber.