Wollastonite powder, derived from the mineral wollastonite (CaSiO₃), finds extensive applications across multiple industries due to its unique properties, such as acicular crystal structure, high whiteness, and good chemical stability.
In ceramics, wollastonite powder plays a crucial role. It significantly reduces the firing temperature of ceramic products. By lowering the melting point of the raw materials, it saves energy and cuts production costs. Moreover, it improves the mechanical properties of ceramics. It increases the density and strength of ceramic bodies, making them more resistant to breakage and wear. Wollastonite also reduces the shrinkage rate during the firing process, minimizing deformation and improving the quality and consistency of ceramic products. For example, in the production of tiles and tableware, it helps achieve a smoother surface and better glaze adhesion.
Paint and Coating Industry
As a filler in paints and coatings, wollastonite powder enhances multiple performance aspects. Its acicular structure provides excellent reinforcing effects, improving the hardness and abrasion resistance of the coatings. This makes the coated surfaces more durable and less prone to scratches. Additionally, it improves the weather resistance of coatings, protecting them from UV radiation, moisture, and other environmental factors. Wollastonite also helps to increase the gloss and smoothness of the coating film, enhancing the decorative effect. It can partially replace more expensive pigments and fillers, reducing production costs while maintaining good coating performance. In architectural paints, it contributes to long - lasting color and protection of building exteriors.
Plastics Industry
In plastics, wollastonite powder acts as an effective reinforcing agent. It significantly improves the mechanical properties of plastic materials, including tensile strength, flexural strength, and impact resistance. This is especially important for engineering plastics used in automotive parts, electronic devices, and other high - performance applications. By adding wollastonite, plastics can better withstand mechanical stress and maintain their shape under various conditions. It also reduces the thermal expansion coefficient of plastics, improving their dimensional stability during processing and use. This property is crucial for manufacturing precision - molded plastic components. Additionally, wollastonite powder can enhance the surface finish of plastic products, making them more aesthetically pleasing.
Metallurgy Industry
In the metallurgical field, wollastonite powder serves as a flux. During steel - making and other smelting processes, it helps lower the melting point of the slag. By improving the fluidity of the slag, it promotes the separation of impurities from the metal, enhancing the purity and quality of the final metal product. Wollastonite also reduces the viscosity of the slag, making it easier to remove from the furnace. This improves the efficiency of the smelting process and reduces energy consumption.
