Strontium hydroxide
# Strontium hydroxide

Strontium hydroxide, $Sr(OH)_2,$ is a caustic alkali composed of one strontium ion and two hydroxide ions. It is synthesized by combining a strontium salt with a strong base. $Sr(OH)_2$ exists in anhydrous, monohydrate, or octahydrate form.

## Preparation

Because $Sr(OH)_2$ is slightly soluble in cold water, its preparation can be easily carried out by the addition of a strong base such as NaOH or KOH, drop by drop to a solution of any soluble strontium salt, most commonly $Sr(NO_3)_2$ (strontium nitrate). The $Sr(OH)_2$ will precipitate out as a fine white powder. From here, the solution is filtered, and the $Sr(OH)_2$ is washed with cold water and dried.

## Applications

Strontium hydroxide is used chiefly in the refining of beet sugar and as a stabilizer in plastic. It may be used as a source of strontium ions when the chlorine from strontium chloride is undesirable. Strontium hydroxide absorbs carbon dioxide from the air to form strontium carbonate.

## Safety

Strontium hydroxide is a severe skin, eye and respiratory irritant. It is harmful if swallowed.

