What is a Iron oxide (Fe₂O₃)?

Iron oxide (Fe₂O₃) is an inorganic compound composed of iron and oxygen, typically appearing as a reddish-brown or red powder. It is one of the most common oxides of iron and occurs naturally in minerals such as hematite, which is an important iron ore. Fe₂O₃ is a highly stable compound, resistant to acids and bases, and remains stable even at high temperatures. This makes it useful as a pigment, particularly in red paints and construction materials. Iron oxide also plays a vital role in the steel industry, where it is involved in the reduction of iron ores during the production of iron. Chemically, iron oxide can be reduced back to iron, which is crucial in various metal reduction processes. In addition, iron oxide exhibits magnetic properties, making it useful in the manufacturing of magnetic tapes and recording media. It is also used in environmental applications, such as water treatment, where it helps adsorb pollutants. While generally safe, exposure to large amounts of iron oxide can cause irritation, so care should be taken when handling it.

※Includes information on some trading companies