Several Applications of Lead Oxide
Lead oxide is a term that can be either litharge lead tetra oxide, lead monoxide, and gray/black oxide. The color of lead oxide is generally red and its crystal is opaque in tetragonal shape and it is generally well striated.
The lead oxide reacts with silica and forms low melting lead silicates of deep character and high gloss. It is the heaviest oxide present in nature and in incredible colors (red, black, yellow). It also has flow characteristic (viscosity- in a molten state) and also has blemish healing.
Lead is often used with boric oxide to improve crazing problems and the solution is resistance to chemical attack.
The lead oxide is used in many different types of industries. In this article, I am going to mention some of the applications of lead oxide.
Lead oxide in batteries: This is the most prominent application where the lead oxide is used. Oxides required for battery application is again divided into three categories.
Stationary batteries: This type of batteries are called as stand up batteries and are widely used in case of main power supply failures in telecom networks, hospitals, small industries, computer installations, power stations etc. Lead oxide (Pb3O4) is commonly used in such type of batteries.
SLI batteries: SLI stands for Starting, Lighting, and Ignition. It is widely used in vehicles that have lead acid battery uses and it requires 5-6 kg of lead oxide in its production.
Traction batteries: It is designed for multiple charge and discharge cycle. Lead oxide is used in a great amount for the manufacturing of such batteries. These batteries are used to supply power to a forklift truck, golf cart etc.
Lead oxide in glass: Leaded glass contains near about 26-28 percent of lead oxide. The presence of lead oxide improves the density and clarity of the glass. It is also present in television tube which helps in absorbing harmful radiation. Optical fibers are also depended on lead oxide to increase the refractive index. It is also used in x-ray protection glasses.
Lead oxides in ceramics: It has been used in glazes and enamels. It enhances the color, thermal and wears properties of coatings.
Lead oxides in PVC: It is used as lead stabilizers in the processing of PVC. The presence of lead in stabilizers improves the thermal stability of PVC, improves electrical and UV resistance properties and allows high-temperature processing.
Lead oxide also has an important market in the industries like dry colors, soaps, and lead chemicals industries.
So, friends, these are some of the areas where lead oxides are widely used. If you have any doubt, please mention it in the comment section below.