Dolomite
Formula : CaMg(CO3)2
Description
Dolomite is a Double Carbonate of Calcium and Magnesium - CaCO3. MgCO3. It is sedimentary in origin and is supposed to have been formed due to chemical action of sea-water containing high percentage of Magnesia and Limestone. A true chemically uniform calcium magnesium carbonate with the chemical formula CaMg(CO3)2, and a dolomitic limestone – an irregular mixture of calcium and magnesium carbonates.
Key Highlights
- Chemical Stability – Maintains performance under varied industrial conditions.
- Dual Composition – Natural source of both calcium and magnesium carbonates.
- High Durability – Resistant to weathering, making it ideal for construction uses.
- Versatility – Supplied in lumps, powder, and calcined forms.
Core Applications
- Animal Feed – Supplies essential minerals (Ca & Mg) for livestock nutrition.
- Chemical Industry – Used to produce magnesium salts, refractory materials, and lime.
- Glass & Ceramics – Used as a source of Magnesium. Large quantities of processed dolomite used in the production of Float glass. It also finds use in the manufacture of Mineral Wool.
- Paints & Coatings – Serves as a filler and extender, providing whiteness and consistency.
- Pharmaceuticals & Health – Processed forms used in mineral supplements and formulation.
- Steel & Metallurgy – Acts as a flux to remove impurities in iron and steel production.
Extended Applications
- Agriculture – Improves soil fertility, reduces acidity, and provides magnesium for crops.
- Construction & Building – Due to the mineral's increased hardness and density, while asphalt and concrete applications prefer dolomite as filler for its strength and hardness.
- Environmental Applications – Used in flue gas desulfurization and waste treatment.
- Horticulture – Dolomitic limestone and dolomite are added to soils and soilless potting mixes to lower their acidity, as well as a magnesium source.
- Water Treatment – Helps neutralize acidic water and stabilize pH.
