Barite
Barite is a mineral composed of barium sulfate (BaSO4) and derives its name from the Greek word ‘barys’, meaning “heavy.”
Barite is well-known for its great range of colors and varied crystal habits. It is easily identifiable by its heavy weight, since most similar minerals are much lighter.
Drilling mud is a suspension, generally aqueous, that is pumped down through the drill pipe to remove rock cuttings and to lubricate the drill bit in rotary drilling. Barite is added to increase the mud’s specific gravity, which maintains the hydrostatic equilibrium, preventing gas, oil or saltwater from entering from high-pressure zones. Barite intended for this market must meet specifications set by the American Petroleum Institute, which set limits on size, specific gravity and soluble alkaline salt content.
Applications
Barite is used primarily for its high specific gravity in addition to its chemical and physical inertness, relative softness and very low solubility.
Oil and Gas
Medical
Construction
