Feldspar

Feldspar is a group of crystalline minerals that predominantly consist of aluminium silicates along with either potassium, sodium, barium or calcium. Feldspar is the most abundant mineral group as they form over 60% of terrestrial rocks. Its abundance is so high that the classification of many rocks is based on their feldspar content. The industrial application of Feldspar is driven by the alumina and alkali content. They are used as fluxing agents in ceramics and glass industries and also as essential fillers in plastics, rubber, adhesive and paint industries.

Feldspar chemical formula

feldspar formula - Feldspar is a tectosilicate with the chemical composition

KAlSi3O8 – NaAlSi3O8 – CaAl2Si2O8

Feldspar mineral

Physical Properties - Feldspars exhibit several noteworthy physical properties, which drive their applications in a variety of sectors:

  • High Alumina & Alkali Content
  • High Potassium Content
  • Low Iron Content
  • Chemical Inertness
  • Stable pH
  • Consistent Hardness
Applications

Due to its abundance and critical properties, Feldspars are an integral constituent in the manufacturing of a lot of items in our daily lives:

Glass Making

Feldspars are a critical fluxing agent in glass manufacturing as they lower the melting point of Quartz and allow for a more efficient production process.

Ceramics

Feldspars are widely used along with clay in the ceramic industry as they help improve the toughness, durability and overall strength of the ceramic products.

Plastic & Rubber

Because of their chemical inertness and good dispersibility, feldspars are also used as extenders and fillers in the plastics, paints and rubber industry.

Enamel Frits & Glazes

Feldspar is instrumental in ensuring good enamel composition, which helps in removing defects in ceramic products and gives the end products a neat finish.