Lead carbonate

Lead(II) carbonate

Lead(II) carbonate sample

Lead(II) carbonate, also known as plumbous carbonate, is a chemical compound with the formula PbCO_. It is a white solid that occurs naturally as the mineral cerussite. Lead(II) carbonate is an important compound in the lead industry and has been used historically in paints and cosmetics.

Structure and properties

Lead(II) carbonate is composed of lead cations (Pb__) and carbonate anions (CO___). The compound crystallizes in the orthorhombic crystal system. It is poorly soluble in water but can dissolve in acidic solutions, forming lead(II) salts and carbon dioxide.

Occurrence

Lead(II) carbonate occurs naturally as the mineral cerussite, which is an important ore of lead. Cerussite is often found in the oxidized zones of lead ore deposits, where it forms through the weathering of galena (lead sulfide).

Uses

Historically, lead(II) carbonate was used as a white pigment in paints, known as "white lead." It was valued for its opacity and ability to adhere well to surfaces. However, due to its toxicity, the use of lead carbonate in paints has been largely discontinued in favor of safer alternatives.

In the past, lead carbonate was also used in cosmetics, particularly in face powders, to achieve a pale complexion. This practice has been abandoned due to the health risks associated with lead exposure.

Health effects

Lead(II) carbonate is highly toxic and poses significant health risks if ingested or inhaled. Exposure to lead compounds can lead to lead poisoning, which affects multiple body systems, including the nervous, hematopoietic, and renal systems. Symptoms of lead poisoning include abdominal pain, neurological deficits, and anemia.

Safety precautions

Due to its toxicity, handling of lead(II) carbonate requires strict safety precautions. Protective equipment such as gloves and masks should be used to prevent inhalation or ingestion of lead dust. Proper disposal methods must be followed to prevent environmental contamination.

Related pages

• Lead poisoning
• Cerussite
• Lead
• Paint