A research on the enrichment of huntite for the paint industry was carried out by the ITU Department of Mineral Processing Engineering. Samples collected from the Denizli underwent enrichment through mechanical attrition and sieving processes to achieve high-purity huntite concentrates. These enriched samples were then integrated into paint formulations, specifically targeting the enhancement of flame retardancy properties.

For further details, the full study can be accessed via Minerals 2024, 14(2), 180, published on February 7, 2024.

Title: Enhancing Flame Retardancy: Enrichment of Huntite for Paint Industry Applications

Tülay Türk, Zeynep Üçerler*, İpek Sökmen and Murat Olgaç Kangal

Abstract: Huntite, a naturally occurring carbonate mineral, originates through the alteration processes of dolomite and magnesite. While its structural characteristics align with typical carbonate minerals, its distinction arises from its polyhedral conjunctiveness. The versatile utility of huntite spans several industries, including paint, flame retardant, plastic, polymer, and pharmaceutical sectors. Noteworthy among its diverse applications is its utilization as a flame-retardant additive in raw materials. In this investigation, three samples received from the Denizli region of Turkey were subjected to detailed analysis followed by an enrichment process involving mechanical attrition and sieving of 38 microns where undersize products were obtained, exhibiting 86.9% huntite for the H-1 sample and 91.9% huntite for the H-2–3 sample. The huntite concentrates were then incorporated into paint formulations with the objective of enhancing flame retardancy. A series of testing protocols were implemented to assess the quality of the resulting paints, ultimately yielding a fire-resistant paint formulation through utilizing the H-1 sample.

Figure. Paint products obtained by using difference huntite concentrate (Türk et al., 2024).

Reference: 

Türk, T., Üçerler, Z., Sökmen, İ., & Kangal, M. O. (2024). Enhancing Flame Retardancy: Enrichment of Huntite for Paint Industry Applications. Minerals, 14(2), 180.