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Bismuth Oxychloride

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Catalog Number CI-SC-0057
Product Name Bismuth Oxychloride
CAS 7787-59-9
Structure
Synonyms Chlorobismuth oxide
Description Very fine crystallized pigment composed of bismuth and a salt. Bismuth can be found naturally in the rare mineral bismoclite but is nowadays produced from other metals
Molecular Weight 261.44 g/mol
Molecular Formula BiClO
Canonical SMILES O=[Bi].Cl
InChI InChI=1S/Bi.ClH.O/h;1H;
InChI Key BWOROQSFKKODDR-UHFFFAOYSA-N
Boiling Point 1564°C
Melting Point 271.3 °C
Purity 99%+
Density 7.72 g/mL at 25 °C (lit.)
Solubility Insoluble, but miscible in water & oils
Appearance Fine off-white crystalline powder, no odor
Application Main ingredient for mineral makeup products including face powders, foundations, lipsticks, eye shadows, mascara, and more.
Storage Store in a closed container at a dry place at room temperature
Composition Bismuth oxychloride
Features And Benefits Pearlescent pigment providing excellent semi-transparent mild lusterGood filling properties providing smooth texture
GMO GMO-free (does not contain plant-derived components)
HS Code 3003100000
INCI Bismuth oxychloride
Manufacture Bismuth oxychloride is produced from bismuth that has been extracted from lead, tin, or copper, and then purified in a multi-step process. Purified bismuth is then chlorinated and treated with water to create the pigment bismuth oxychloride.
Preservation Preservative-free
Purity Grade No purity grade applicable
Raw Material Source Bismuth
Refractive Index 2.15
Topological Polar Surface Area 17.1 Ų
Uses Can be tinted with other pigments to create different shades. For external use only.
Custom Q&A

What is bismuth oxychloride and what is it used for in cosmetics?

Bismuth oxychloride is a synthetic pearl powder and it is used as an ingredient in powders, particularly in mineral makeup. It has a shimmery appearance and adheres well to the skin.

How is bismuth oxychloride manufactured?

Bismuth oxychloride is manufactured by combining bismuth, a by-product of lead and copper metal refining, with chloride and water.

Is bismuth oxychloride a natural ingredient?

No, bismuth oxychloride is not a natural ingredient. It is manufactured through a chemical process and does not occur naturally in large quantities.

What is the difference between talc and bismuth oxychloride?

Talc is considered to be a more natural and unadulterated ingredient compared to bismuth oxychloride. Talc is lighter in weight and does not have the same pearlescent appearance.

How does bismuth oxychloride affect the skin?

Some people may react to bismuth oxychloride due to its unique crystal structure. The crystals can irritate the skin and get stuck in the pores, potentially causing irritation.

Is bismuth oxychloride toxic?

Bismuth oxychloride is less toxic than its chemical counterparts, but it can still cause irritation and reactions in some individuals.

How is bismuth oxychloride refined and purified for cosmetic use?

Bismuth oxychloride goes through several refining processes, including electrolysis with lead fluorosilicate and fluorosilicic acid, treatment with molten caustic zinc, chlorination, and treatment with water and nitric acid.

Why is bismuth oxychloride used in mineral makeup?

Bismuth oxychloride is used in mineral makeup because of its pearlescent and shimmery appearance. It enhances the glow and adhesion properties of the makeup.

Why do some women have intense reactions to bismuth oxychloride in cosmetics?

The intense reactions to bismuth oxychloride may be due to a buildup of the ingredient in the pores over time, as well as its unique crystal structure that can irritate the skin.

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