Tile Manufacturing: Wollastonite is added to ceramic tile bodies to reduce firing shrinkage (by up to 30%) and improve thermal shock resistance. For example, in porcelain tile production, a 10–15% wollastonite blend ensures uniform sizing and prevents cracking during high-temperature firing (1,200–1,400°C).
Refractory Materials: In kiln linings and furnace components, wollastonite-based formulations enhance resistance to thermal stress. A case study in steel foundries shows that refractories with 20% wollastonite powder maintain structural integrity at 1,600°C, outperforming traditional clay-based materials.
2. Coatings and Paints
Architectural Paints: In exterior acrylic paints, wollastonite (5–10% loading) acts as a reinforcing filler, improving weather resistance and hiding power. A leading paint manufacturer reduced titanium dioxide (TiO₂) usage by 15% in their formulations by substituting with wollastonite, lowering costs while maintaining opacity.
Marine Coatings: For anti-corrosive ship paints, wollastonite’s needle-like structure creates a "lamellar barrier" that slows water and salt penetration. A major marine coating brand achieved a 50% extension in coating lifespan by incorporating 8% wollastonite into epoxy-based formulations.
3. Plastics and Polymers
Automotive Components: In polypropylene (PP) bumpers, wollastonite (30–40% loading) enhances rigidity and impact resistance. A global automotive supplier replaced 25% of talc filler with wollastonite, achieving a 12% weight reduction and 18% improvement in tensile strength for lightweight vehicle parts.
Pipe and Fittings: PVC pipes reinforced with 15–20% wollastonite show improved dimensional stability and resistance to chemical corrosion. A PVC pipe manufacturer in Europe reported a 20% reduction in production defects (e.g., warping) after adopting wollastonite-filled compounds.