Characterization and Suitability of Nigerian Barites for Different Industrial Applications

Abstract

This work aimed to characterize barite samples from selected different locations in Nigeria and determine their suitability for various industrial applications. The properties determined include mineralogy, chemical composition, morphology, functional groups, and specific gravity. Samples were obtained from ten locations in Nasarawa and Taraba states as well as a standard working sample (WS) obtained from a drilling site. The samples were characterized using scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX), Fourier infrared analysis (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Specific gravity (SG) was determined using the pycnometer method. Results of SEM-EDX analysis show that the WS has a Ba-S-O empirical composition of 66.5% whereas these of the ten samples investigated vary between 59.36% and 98.86%. The FTIR analysis shows that the functional groups of S-O, SO42−, Ba-S-O, OH of the ten samples match that of the WS. Results of XRD show that the ten samples have the same mineralogical composition as the WS and all meet American Petroleum Institute (API) standards for industrial barite. Similar matching results are shown from EDXRF spectra intensity, position, and composition analysis of the ten samples compared to the WS. Specific gravity (SG) results show that six out of the ten samples have SG above 4.2 which is the recommended minimum for the American Petroleum Institute (API) standard. The other four samples will require beneficiation to meet the standard for drilling mud application. Using all the parameters of the assessment together, results show that while some (6) of the samples can be used for drilling fluid application, some (4) require beneficiation but all ten samples can be used for other industrial applications including healthcare, construction, plastic, cosmetics, paper, and rubber industries. The results of the study can be used for value addition in developing beneficiation procedures, processes, and technology for purification along with new materials for the industries.

Fostering the Sustainability of Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM) of Barite in Nasarawa State, Nigeria

“…This lack of quality control may be one of the major reasons why these companies are still importing barites from other countries since they must use barite that meet international standard. Recent characterization work by the authors show that with adequate quality control and little beneficiation, Nigerian Barite can meet the required international standard [77,78] In addition, there are regulations from related government agencies such as those related with environmental protection. These laws, guidelines, and policies are implemented by a number of organizations including: 4 shows that most of the miners are not aware of these government policies, programs, and agencies.…”

Determination of carbonate content in barite ore by headspace gas chromatography

“…Barite ore is an essential nonmetallic mineral, and its main component is barium sulfate (BaSO 4 ). It has been widely applied in various fields, for example, as a weighting material in oil drilling [1,2] and as a contrast agent in medical treatment [3]. This is due to its non-toxic nature, resistance to high temperatures, and stable chemical properties.…”

Value of Mineralogical Monitoring for the Mining and Minerals Industry

“…Otoijamun et al study barite from selected locations in Nigeria [11] and aim to determine its suitability for various industrial applications. The paper shows the added value of XRD in developing beneficiation procedures, processes, and technologies for barite purification.…”