Micaceous Iron Oxide

KI 350 Micaceous hematite, Natural lamellar hematite, Specular iron oxide, Micaceous iron oxide, Natural specular hematite ore
Chemical Name: Micaceous iron oxide
Chemical Formula: Crystalline Fe203
A naturally occurring lamellar form of ferrous oxide for use in manufacturing paint coatings. When viewed under an optical microscope by transmitted light, magnification X 200, the thin flake micaceous iron oxide particles appear as sharply defined red translucent platelets. Without doubt, it is the most important barrier pigment used in coatings to protect structural steelwork from corrosion. It has a 100-year record of successful use on many types of steel structures throughout the world. It forms overlapping plates like mail armor. It reflects ultraviolet light, allows water vapor to escape from the substrate, and is chemically resistant.
Bridge structural protective coatings, oil rig structural protective coatings, and protective coatings for all types of electrical and industrial equipment where durability and reliability are important.
It has been successfully used in various paint primers with single or multiple topcoats in alkyd, epoxy, vinyl, acrylic, polyurethane, and chlorinated rubber.
It has been used in corrosion and weather resistant paint throughout Europe for more than 100 years. The Eiffel Tower is one outstanding example.
The horizontal layering of the lamellar (micaceous) particles, overlapping like scales on a fish gives strength to the paint and acts as an inert barrier to the vertical penetration of corrosive elements and ultraviolet light.