MicaFort in polymers

An increasing application for MicaFort is in thermoplastic blends. When you compare our MicaFort with other minerals the industry uses to replace fibreglass in polyamide, we can state that it:

• Reduces warping efficiently
• The surface finish improves an optimal balance of isotropic mechanical and dimensional properties
• Provides excellent reinforcement on its own or in combination with fibreglass

Compared with other mineral fillers in polypropylene, compounds with MicaFort have a:

• Superior modulus
• Isotropic reduction of the linear thermal expansion coefficient (CLTE)
• Increased heat-rejection temperature
• Possibility to reduce the density

Other polymers that benefit from the unique properties of MicaFort Phlogopite and Muscovite include PE, TPO and PBT. Duroplast polymers such as polyester, polyurethane, epoxy and acrylic benefit from improved performance and service life. Elastomers are stronger and quickly release from the mould.

MicaFort in coatings

Industrial coatings such as marine, anti-corrosion and chemical resistant paints benefit from the inert nature of MicaFort. As well as the ability to form a barrier to aggressive chemicals. Recent studies have shown that you can achieve the best results with MicaFort MM75 in two-component epoxy coatings. When incorporated into water-based paint, the laminated MicaFort reduces the cracking of the paint.

With the help of MicaFort you can:

• Improve the lifetime of coatings
• Reduce the water vapour permeability
• Increase the strength of the paint layer

Advantages in roof, wood and tile paint are:

• Improved resistance to cracking
• Stable UV protection during prolonged exposure to the outside air

In cementitious fire-resistant coatings used for the protection of structural steel and concrete, MicaFort contributes to lower flammability while it forms a dense “skin” to prevent the paint from being destroyed during a fire.

Essential benefits of MicaFort for foundry coatings are:

• Better surface finish
• Increased accuracy of the metal casting
• Improved recyclability of the sand cores

Other applications are coatings for the production of rubber tires and heat-resistant paint.

MicaFort in Seed Coatings

MicaFort can be used in seed coatings in the agricultural industry due to its low moisture content. This helps with the prevention of seed rot and early germination. When seeds do germinate, MicaFort also feeds the seedings due to the potassium content.

Additionally, MicaFort helps with seed distribution during planting because of its good flowability.

The two types of Mica we use in seed coatings are Phlogopite and Muscovite, each having a different effect. Phlogopite grades have a bronze colour, which is a very distinguishable colour. Muscovite grades have an excellent sheen and accept pigmentation/colouration very well. This makes Muscovite grades excellent for colour identification.

Standard grades

MicaFort packaging

Our MicaFort product range is available in paper sacks or big bags. Also, some grades are available in bulk. We suggest that you contact your sales representative to see if this applies to the grade you want to purchase.

Physical properties of MicaFort

MicaFort origin

Muscovite is a constituent of acid igneous rocks like granite, pegmatite, or alaskite, some regionally metamorphosed rocks and clastic sedimentary rocks, and is a product of alteration. It is a fact that most commercial deposits are derived from pegmatites which contain 1-2% and rarely up to 10% muscovite. Moreover, Mica is found in many regions of the world as pegmatite rock and mica schist.

Phlogopite is associated with metamorphosed limestone and ultrabasic rocks, particularly hydrothermal veins formed through metasomatism of magnesium-rich rocks, as well as ultrabasic and carbonatite ring intrusions associated with ancient shield areas. LKAB Minerals’ Phlogopite Mica is sourced from a major deposit in Finland. Click here to view our EPD.

Toxicology

Phlogopite and Muscovite Mica are non-toxic natural minerals.

We have a third-party verified Environmental Performance Declaration (EPD) for our Finnish mica. Click here to view our EPD.