WollastoniteBy Andrew Groth

Introduction

• Wollastonite – Two unique aspects• Structure• Uses

Structure

• Formula– CaSiO3

– Two main components• CaO wt% = 48.3%• SiO2 wt% = 51.7%

– Very little deviation fromthe stoichiometric formula in nature

Structure cont.

• Double chain inosilicate– Pyroxenoid Group

• Different than pyroxenes– Pyroxenes’ chain motif repeats after every two SiO4

tetrahedra– Pyroxenoids’ chain motif

show longer repeat distance– Wollastonite repeats every

three• Triclinic

Uses

• Most Important – Ceramics– Principal Ingredient for ceramics used in wall and

floor tiles– Adds strength– Fires white to grey– Fires at faster rate– Fires at lower temperature then other ceramic bodies

• Filler in paint and paper products• Used in mineral wool insulation

Conclusion• Wollastonite has two unique aspects– Structure• CaSiO3

• Very little deviation• Double chain inosilicate pyroxenoid• Triclinc

– Uses• Ceramics• Filler in paint and paper products• mineral wool insulation