Cobalt Oxide Uses

  Cobalt oxide is a chemical compound derived from cobalt blue, a byproduct of metal extraction and processing of copper and nickel. The cobalt oxide powder is in green, red or black or crystal and has many industrial applications and health, although repeated exposure can also cause a high disease.

Pigments

  Cobalt oxide is used to provide color blue for glass, porcelain and enamel tiles and gives a blue tint to enamel steel. It is also a drying agent for paints in oils, varnishes and inks, and is used in sympathetic inks, which are colorless and invisible until they are exposed to chemicals,light or heat.

 Industrial Uses

   The cobalt oxide in the form of lithium cobalt oxide is a chemical essential to the manufacture of rechargeable batteries. It is also used in the manufacture of magnets and used as a catalyst for hydrogen production. It acts as an oxidizing agent in the propane fuel and ammonium fertilizers. Petroleum and petrochemical companies use cobalt oxide to treat raw materials and finished products. Manufacturers of semiconductors use cobalt oxide to fabricate circuit components such as voltage controlled resistors.

 Nutrition

   Animal feed Manufacturers use cobalt oxide to increase the nutritional content. Herbal supplements of cobalt oxide reduce mineral deficiencies in cattle, sheep and horses, and help them absorb and metabolize vitamin B12. The cobalt oxide also contributes to the growth and reproductive development in animals and may prevent swelling of the thyroid gland. In addition to the soil, cobalt oxide infused vegetables, leafy vegetables and other plants with cobalamin, a form of vitamin B12. Cobalamin-rich plants may help vegetarians and other non-meat eaters avoid anemia, heart palpitations and other health problems.

 Dangers of Cobalt Oxide

   Repeated exposure to dust heavy cobalt oxide untreated or fumes can irritate the airways and cause coughing, asthma and lung disease,abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, rash and ringing in the ears can also result,and patches of red, itchy skin can appear as well. Chronic exposure is linked to kidney, heart and lungs. People who have skin problems, eye conditions or allergies to cobalt should avoid contact with dust from cobalt oxide and vapors. This is a potential cancer causer in humans and can disrupt the reproductive systems.