Uses of Bismuth
Bismuth is usually mixed with other metals, such as lead, tin iron or cadmium to form low-melting alloys. These alloys are often used for automatic fire sprinkler systems, electric fuses and fire detector systems. Bismuth oxide (Bi2O3)is used in yellow paint pigment and bismuth carbonate (Bi2(CO3)3) is used to treat upset stomachs and gastric ulcers. In fact, the main ingredient in Pepto-Bismol is bismuth subsalicylate. Bismuth is also used in foundries and in nuclear reactors. Bismuth alloys give sharp impressions when they are used to objects when casting molds. Bismuth does not readily absorb neutrons, so melted bismuth can be used to carry radioactive fuel to the core of certain nuclear reactors. It can also help to cool the reactor.