Strontium applications

Strontium compounds are useful in pyrotechnic devices and signal flares because of the bright crimson coloring they give to flames.

Strontium is used for producing glass for color televisions. It is also used in producing ferrite ceramic magnets and in refining zinc. Strontium atoms helped develop the world's most accurate atomic clock, which is accurate to one second in 200 million years. Toothpaste for sensitive teeth uses strontium chloride, and strontium oxide is used to improve the quality of pottery glazes. The isotope ⁹⁰Sr is one of the world's best long-lived, high energy beta emitters known. It is also used in cancer therapy.

Strontium-90, a radioactive isotope of the metal produced by fission reactions is a dangerous environmental menace because its chemistry is similar to calcium and it may take its place in bones. The strong radiation emitted by the isotope interferes with the production of new blood cells and can cause death.