Natural barite is mainly used in the following applications:
Coatings: improve UV resistance, sandability, chemical resistance and gloss control, increase density and are a cost-effective alternative to precipitated barite.
Polymers: to improve acoustic insulation in plastics and opacity in plastic systems, to increase weight and are a cost-effective alternative to precipitated barite.
Automotive: improve friction in brake pads.
Key characteristics of natural barite include:
High inertness
High density, resulting in low oil absorption
Average Mohs hardness of 3
High refractive index of 1.64
Easily wetted
Easily dispersed
