It is used as a precursor to the preparation of other compounds of bismuth, chemical reagents. It has specialized uses in optical glass, flame-retardant paper, in glaze formulations as a substitute for lead oxides. It is used as solid electrolyte because of its high thermal expansion property. It is used in radio frequency shielding, compound for catheters and other medical tubing products.

This Thermo Scientific Chemicals brand product was originally part of the Alfa Aesar product portfolio. Some documentation and label information may refer to the legacy brand. The original Alfa Aesar product / item code or SKU reference has not changed as a part of the brand transition to Thermo Scientific Chemicals.