White minerals and chemicals
Speciality Minerals and Chemicals have a vast array of uses. Though raw minerals are used less frequently for advanced purposes, their major applications include pharmaceuticals, dyes, paints, fertilizers, plastics, surfactants to name a few. The manufacturers of speciality minerals can custom design these chemicals to meet the specifications of a particular product or process.
Mica - Filler and pigment extender
Mica mineral is a generic term applied to a group of complex hydrous potassium-aluminum silicate minerals having a sheet or plate like structure. Mica is found in the form of small flakes to big slabs. Large crystals of Mica, used for diverse applications, are mined from granitic pegmatite. Natural Mica is extensively used in industries like in Paints, Plastics, Cosmetics and Rubber. In addition, it also acts as filler and extender, providing a smoother consistency, improves workability, and prevents cracking.
Many varieties of Mica are distinguished by their chemical composition, some varieties occurring only in very specific geological settings while others have more widespread occurrences.
Silica – Excellent Electrical Insulator
Natural Silica (Silicon Dioxide), the most abundant mineral in the Earth's crust, has a number of distinct crystalline forms (polymorphs) in addition to amorphous forms. The most common example is seen in the quartz crystalline form of silica. Silica mineral acts as a great semiconductor. This is the reason why silica is used in the productionIntegrated Circuit. Today, the modern electronics world significantly depends on silica for the manufacture of wire insulation, fiber optic cables and semiconductors.
Primary uses of Silica include:- Manufacturing of flat glass, container glass, speciality glass, foundry mouldings and chemicals
- It is also used in paint industry, plastic industry and epoxy castings
- Silica is also used widely in ceramic material both as a precursor to the fabrication of other ceramic products
Magnesium hydroxide and Aluminium Trihydrate - Non-Hazardous Flame retardants
Magnesium hydroxide and Aluminium Trihydrate have a vital application as flame retardant and smoke suppressantby diluting the amount of fuel available to sustain combustion.As these minerals contain no halogens or heavy metals, they are better for environmental compliances as well.
Magnesium hydroxide powder is also used industrially as a non-hazardous alkali to neutralize acidic wastewaters. While Aluminium Trihydrate can act as inert filler, covering agents and retardants for rubber, ceramics, enamels, fabrics and fiber products.
Polyethylene Wax - High-performance Matt Wax and Lubricant
Low Molecular Polyethylene Wax is used as a matting wax and processing aid for pigments that are hard to disperse. This matt wax acts as fillers in powder Polyethylene Wax coatings, paints and printing ink. It is also used as an external lubricant for rigid and plasticized PVC.
