Barite or Barytes is chemically naturally occurring Barium Sulphate (BaSO4) with nodular particle structure. It receives its name from the Greek word “barys" which means “heavy.” This name is in response to barite’s high specific gravity of 4.5, which is exceptional for a nonmetallic mineral. The high specific gravity of barite makes it suitable for a wide range of industrial, medical and manufacturing uses. Barite also serves as the principal ore of barium.
The properties noted for drilling muds plus its light color and high brightness (up to 90+%), low oil absorption, and wettability by oils allow Barite to be used as a filler and weighing agent. [acoustical compounds; adhesives, athletic goods (bowling balls, golf balls, tennis balls); carpet backing; friction materials; linoleum; mold release agents; paints including primer (automotive and appliance) top coats(automotive), gloss enamels, powder coatings, semi-gloss and gloss latexes, and industrial and architectural coatings; paper; radiation shielding; rope finishes; rubber; urethane foams.
Barite (Barytes) is used as a source of BaO in glass making where it acts as a flux oxidizer, and decolorizer giving greater brilliance and clarity to the finished glass.
