Dolomite

Additional Details

 The crystals of Dolomite ranges from white, gray to pink. Dolomite is used as an ornamental stone, a concrete aggregate, a source of magnesium oxide and in the Pidgeon process for the production of magnesium. Sometimes, dolomite is used in as a flux for the smelting of iron and steel. Large quantities of processed dolomite are used in the production of float glass. 

The physical properties of this ore are as follows: 

* Appearance : White Crystalline Powder 

* Sp. gravity : 2.6 – 2.8 

* Oil absorption : 12 to 14 

* Volatile content : Max. 0.5% 

* pH of 10% slurry : 8.5 to 9.0 

* Coarse particles : Max. 0.5% 

Following is the chemical composition of this ore: 

* CaCO3 : 56.5% 

* MgCO3 : 43.0% 

* CaO : 31.5% 

* MgO : 20.5% 

* Fe2O3 : 0.5% 

* SiO2 : 1.5% 

* Al2O3 : 0.5% 

Dolomite finds wide applications in the following industries: 

* Paints : Used widely in cement paints, exterior paints, primers, putties, powder coatings and industrial finishes 

* Plastic : Used in PVC footwear, PVC pipes, cables and others 

* Paper : Used as integral filler in paper to give smoothness and gloss 

* Adhesives : Used in adhesives and carpet backing 

* Ceramic: Used in the production of tiles. 

* Rubber 

* Cosmetic and toiletries 

* Steel plant