Used in the production of barium salts and as a precursor in the manufacture of heat treatment salts for hardening steel. Employed in the purification of brine solutions in caustic chlorine plants due to its ability to remove sulfate impurities. Also utilized in the laboratory for qualitative analysis, particularly in the detection of sulfate ions, forming a characteristic white precipitate of barium sulfate. Has limited use in the glass and ceramic industries to enhance certain properties, though its application is restricted due to toxicity. Historically used in wastewater treatment and in the formulation of some pigments, but such uses have declined because of environmental and health concerns.