Used as a contrast agent in medical imaging, particularly in X-ray and CT scans of the gastrointestinal tract. It helps visualize the esophagus, stomach, and intestines due to its ability to block X-rays, providing clear images of soft tissues and organ structures. Commonly employed in the oil and gas industry as a weighting agent in drilling fluids. It increases the density of drilling mud, helping control wellbore pressure and prevent blowouts during drilling operations. Serves as a filler in the production of plastics, rubber, and paints. It improves density, durability, and resistance to abrasion and radiation in various industrial materials. Utilized in the manufacture of paper coatings, where it enhances brightness, smoothness, and printability of high-quality paper products. Applied in the electronics industry as a component in glass for cathode ray tubes and other radiation-shielding devices due to its high density and low electrical conductivity.