STRONTIUM BROMATE

Description

Chemically Strontium bromate is soluble in water (30.9 g/100 ml at 20°C), and is a moderately strong oxidizing agent. It is also toxic if ingested and irritates the skin and respiratory tract if come into contact with or inhaled, respectively. Strontium bromate is rarely used in the laboratory or in Industry. It is available commercially but in limited quantities.

Chemical properties

Colorless or yellowish crystals, lustrous powder, hygroscopic. Soluble in water. Loses water at 120C, decomposes at 240C.

Preparation

Strontium Bromate can be prepared by reacting strontium hydroxide with sodium bromate or by reacting strontium sulfate with barium bromate:
Sr(OH)2＋ 2NaBrO3→Sr(BrO3)2＋ 2NaOH
SrSO4 (aq)＋ Ba(BrO3)2 (solid)→Sr(BrO3)2 (aq)＋ BaSO4 (solid)
Of the two methods, the latter seems to be more stable since the temperature can be as high as 80°C in solution.
The usual product is a monohydrate, Sr(BrO3)2·H2O. Sr(BrO3)·H2O occurs as small, colorless but lustrous, monoclinic crystals which are prismatic in nature. It is somewhat soluble in water and loses its water of hydration if heated to about 110°C. It decomposes at 240°C forming strontium bromide and oxygen.

Hazard

Strong oxidant, fire risk in contact with organic materials.