What is the difference between acid grade and metallurgical grade?
Assay, particle size and purpose. Acid grade or acidspar is a fine flotation concentrate above 97 percent CaF2 with tightly controlled silica, destined for conversion to hydrogen fluoride. Metallurgical grade or metspar is coarser at typically 60 to 85 percent and is used as received as a slag fluidiser in steelmaking. They are not interchangeable.
2
Why is fluorspar traded as a mineral rather than a chemical?
Because it is used essentially as mined and beneficiated, without chemical conversion. Its specification reflects that: it is sold on assay, on the mineral impurities calcite and silica, on sulfur and moisture, and on sizing, which are the parameters that determine how it will behave in a flotation circuit, a kiln or a furnace.
3
Does the colour of fluorite matter?
Not for industrial use. Fluorite occurs in a wide range of colours from clear through purple, green and blue, caused by trace impurities and crystal lattice defects, and those are of interest to collectors and to the ornamental trade but have no bearing on CaF2 content or industrial performance. Assay and impurity analysis are what matter.
4
What is ceramic grade used for?
In glass and ceramic manufacture, where fluoride acts as an opacifier and a flux. It sits between metallurgical and acid grade in assay and is specified on iron and other colouring impurities, since those would discolour the finished glass or glaze. It is a smaller market than the acid and metallurgical grades.
Still have questions?
Our team is ready to help with any specific enquiries about Fluorite (Fluorspar).