Basalt fiber raw material selection and processing
In the long evolutionary process of the earth, basalt, as an important natural resource, its unique genesis and wide distribution make it an ideal raw material for manufacturing high-performance basalt fibers. In this paper, we will discuss the characteristics, selection criteria and treatment process of basalt.
Properties of basalt
Basalt is formed by the rapid cooling and solidification of magma from volcanic eruptions, and its main constituents include silica (SiO₂), aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃), iron oxide (Fe₂O₃), calcium oxide (CaO) and magnesium oxide (MgO). Typically black or dark gray in appearance, it has excellent physical and chemical properties and is widely distributed throughout the world, including Hawaii, Iceland, and several areas of China.
Criteria for the selection of raw materials
The production of high quality basalt fibers depends on raw materials that meet specific requirements:
Chemical composition:
Silicon Dioxide: the content should be between 45%-55% to ensure proper viscosity and fluidity during the melting process.
Aluminum oxide: generally between 12%-16% to enhance high temperature resistance.
Calcium oxide and magnesium oxide: 8%-12% calcium oxide and 6%-10% magnesium oxide are used to regulate the melt properties.
Iron oxide: not more than 10%, moderate amount can be used as flux.
Physical properties:
Uniform and dense structure: reduces internal holes and cracks and ensures uniform composition and temperature during melting.
Moderate hardness: easy to be processed into suitable particle size, avoiding the problem of excessive hardness or softness.
Melting point range: Suitable melting point should be between 1450℃-1550℃ to ensure full melting.
Purity requirements:High purity basalt is the basis for the production of high quality fibers, which require the removal of harmful impurities such as sulfur and phosphorus.
Raw material treatment processes
In order to ensure the quality of basalt fibers, a series of treatment processes are essential:
Raw material pretreatment: sorting and removing impurities to ensure the purity of raw materials.
Crushing and milling: crushing large basalt into small particles for subsequent processing.
Mixing and blending: utilizing high-pressure gas suspension mixing to ensure that the powder is fully intermingled.
Homogenization: Improve the consistency of raw materials through homogenization to ensure stable chemical composition and melting characteristics.
High-temperature melting: High-temperature melting and stirring in the furnace to achieve a high degree of homogenization.
Conclusion
Basalt, as a rich natural resource, is an important raw material for the manufacture of high-performance basalt fibers. Through strict raw material selection and treatment processes, it can ensure the production of high-quality basalt fibers, which are widely used in many fields, such as aerospace, construction, and automotive. With the continuous development of technology, basalt and its fiber materials will play an important role in more fields and promote the progress and development of society. Therefore, the rational development and utilization of this natural treasure will bring greater value to mankind.