Barite powder (barium sulfate, BaSO₄) comes in various particle sizes depending on its intended application. The size is typically measured in micrometers (µm) or mesh size (indicating the number of openings per linear inch in a sieve). Here are common classifications:
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1. Particle Size Ranges:
– Coarse Powder: 100–500 µm (~140–30 mesh)
Used in drilling muds (API-grade barite), heavy concrete, or radiation shielding.
– Medium Powder: 45–100 µm (~325–140 mesh)
Common in paints, coatings, and filler applications.
– Fine Powder: 10–45 µm (~500–325 mesh)
Used in plastics, rubber, and high-quality paints.
– Ultrafine Powder: <10 µm (~1,250+ mesh)
Required for pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and high-performance coatings.
2. Mesh Size Conversion:
| Mesh Size | Approximate Particle Size (µm) |
|———–|——————————-|
| 200 | 74 |
| 325 | 44 |
| 400 | 37 |
| 500 | 25 |
| 1,250 | 10 |
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3. Key Applications by Size:
– Drilling Industry (API Standard):
– Must meet API-13A specifications (97% passing through a 200-mesh sieve, ~74 µm).
– Paints & Coatings:
– Fine to ultrafine (1–50 µm) for smooth finishes and opacity.
– Plastics & Rubber:
– Fine grades (<20 µm) to improve density and chemical resistance.
– Medical/Pharmaceutical:
– Ultrafine (<10 µm), high-purity barite for X-ray contrast agents.
4. Testing Methods:
– Sieve Analysis (for coarser particles).
– Laser Diffraction or Sedimentation (for sub-micron measurements).
For specific applications, ensure the particle size distribution (PSD) meets industry standards (e.g., API for drilling or ISO for industrial fillers). Let me know if you need details on a particular grade!