Popular industrial applications of the mineral Olivine
Olivine, a naturally occurring silicate mineral, is renowned for its distinctive olive-green hue and exceptional thermal properties. Comprising primarily forsterite (Mg₂SiO₄) and fayalite (Fe₂SiO₄), Olivine boasts a high melting point and remarkable resistance to thermal shock, making it indispensable across various industrial sectors. At LKAB Minerals, we offer high-purity Olivine in multiple grades, tailored to meet the specific demands of diverse industrial applications.
Foundry applications
In the foundry industry, Olivine serves as an effective moulding and core sand. Its high thermal conductivity and low thermal expansion ensure dimensional stability during metal casting processes. Particularly suitable for casting manganese steel and non-ferrous metals, Olivine contributes to producing clean surface finishes and reducing casting defects.
Refractory materials
Olivine’s ability to withstand extreme temperatures makes it ideal for manufacturing refractory products. It’s utilised in producing bonded forsterite bricks, monolithics, and mortars, which are essential components in furnaces and kilns. Additionally, its chemical stability ensures longevity and performance in high-temperature environments.
Steelmaking flux
In steel production, Olivine acts as a fluxing agent in blast furnaces. Its high magnesium content aids in removing impurities from molten iron, forming a slag that can be easily separated. This process enhances the efficiency and quality of steel manufacturing.
Sandblasting abrasive
Due to its hardness and angular grain structure, Olivine is employed as an abrasive material in sandblasting operations. It effectively cleans surfaces without introducing contaminants, making it suitable for preparing metal surfaces for painting or coating.
Environmental applications
Olivine’s potential in environmental remediation is gaining attention. Its rapid weathering rate allows it to sequester carbon dioxide, making it a candidate for carbon capture initiatives. Research is ongoing into its application in enhanced weathering processes to mitigate climate change impacts.
Construction and infrastructure
In the construction sector, Olivine is used as an aggregate in high-friction surfacing materials for roads, enhancing skid resistance and safety. Its durability and resistance to polishing make it suitable for heavy-traffic areas.
Agriculture and soil conditioning
Emerging studies suggest that Olivine can improve soil fertility by releasing essential nutrients like magnesium and iron upon weathering. Its application as a soil amendment could enhance crop yields and contribute to environmentally responsible agricultural practices.
LKAB Minerals' Olivine product range
At LKAB Minerals, we provide a range of Olivine grades to cater to various industrial needs. Our products are available in sizes from 5-8mm to 0-15μm, ensuring suitability for applications ranging from foundry sands to fine abrasives. Packaged in 25kg paper sacks, 1000kg bulk bags, or bulk deliveries, our Olivine meets stringent quality standards for consistency and performance.
Olivine’s unique combination of thermal stability, chemical resilience, and environmental benefits positions it as a versatile mineral in modern industry. From enhancing metallurgical processes to contributing to sustainable practices, its applications are both diverse and impactful. As industries evolve towards more sustainable solutions, Olivine’s role is set to become increasingly significant. Explore our Olivine product page to learn more about how it can benefit your operations, or contact our team for expert guidance. You can also follow us on LinkedIn to stay updated with our latest news and product developments.
