Barium Sulfate (Barite, d50 5µm, High Density)

CAS 7727-43-7In StockSample available

Key Features

  • Extremely high density (4.48 g/cm³) for high-density composite design
  • Very low oil absorption — minimal viscosity increase even at high loading
  • Chemically inert to water, acids, alkalis — excellent chemical resistance
  • X-ray opacity for radiation shielding and medical composite applications
  • Brilliant white (≥95%) and compatible with all thermoset resin systems

Barium sulfate (BaSO₄), commercially known as barite or blanc fixe (precipitated grade), is an exceptionally dense white mineral filler with a specific gravity of 4.48 g/cm³ — approximately 1.6× denser than calcium carbonate. This high density is its primary distinguishing characteristic and the reason it is specified wherever high-density composites are required by design.

Ground barite (natural mineral) with a median particle size of 5 µm provides an excellent balance between high density, smooth surface finish, and good dispersibility in resin systems. The extremely low oil absorption of barite (typically 6–10 g/100g) means it can be loaded to very high levels (200–400 phr) in resin systems with relatively modest viscosity increase, enabling the production of high-density castings, ballast composites, and sound-deadening compounds.

Chemically, barium sulfate is among the most inert and chemically resistant minerals available. It is insoluble in water, acids, and alkalis, making it suitable for chemical-resistant coatings, radiation-shielding composites (attenuates X-rays), and acid-resistant pipe linings. Its high density and particle smoothness also contribute to superior X-ray opacity in medical composites. The white color and chemical inertness make it compatible with all thermoset resin systems.

Specifications

ParameterValue
AppearanceWhite powder
True density4.48 g/cm³
Top cut (d98)≤ 20 µm
Oil absorption6–10 g/100g
BaSO₄ content≥ 97.0%
Moisture content≤ 0.2%
Whiteness (R457)≥ 95%
Bulk density (tapped)1.5–2.0 g/cm³
Median particle size (d50)5 µm

Applications

High-density ballast composites for marine and offshore structuresSound and vibration deadening compounds for automotive and marineX-ray shielding composites for medical and nuclear applicationsChemical-resistant pipe lining and protective coatingsHigh-density putties and potting compounds for weight balancing

FAQ

Density calculation: ρ_composite = 1/(Σ(wᵢ/ρᵢ)) where wᵢ are weight fractions and ρᵢ densities. To achieve 2.0 g/cm³ in UPR (ρ=1.12): approximately 120–150 phr BaSO4 is needed. For 2.5 g/cm³: approximately 250–300 phr. For 3.0 g/cm³: approximately 450–500 phr. At such high loadings, surface treatment and dispersing aids are essential to maintain processability. Always conduct viscosity trials at target loading.

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