|
4.2 gr/cm3 (min) |
Specific gravity |
|
250ppm (max) |
Soluble alkaline earth metals as calcium |
|
0.1% (max) |
Water soluble solids |
|
125/125cps (max) |
Apparent viscosity before/after adding of gypsum |
|
6.5 (min) |
PH at room temp.& 180°F |
|
3w.t% (max) |
Residue on ASTM sieve No:200 |
|
10±5 w.t% |
Residue on ASTM sieve No:325 |
|
30%w (max) |
Particles less than 0.6 µm |
|
0.2% (max) |
Moisture |
Barite is used as a weighting agent for drilling fluids in oil and gas exploration to suppress high formation pressures and prevent blowouts. As a well is drilled, the bit passes through various formations, each with different characteristics. Other uses are in added-value applications which include filler in paint and plastics, sound reduction in engine compartments, coat of automobile finishes for smoothness and corrosion resistance, friction products for automobiles and trucks, radiation-shielding cement, glass ceramics and medical applications.
