Development of New Barite-based Composite Materials

The article explores the possibilities of using barite (BaSO₄), a mineral with unique physicochemical properties, for the development of new composite materials. Barite, possessing high density, chemical resistance, and radiopacity, finds application in construction, medicine, and the oil and gas industry. Significant barite deposits are present in Kyrgyzstan, particularly the "Sartalaa" deposit in the Batken region, where samples were collected for research. Methods of sample preparation are described, including the separation of the sulfide part and the synthesis of barium sulfate (BaCO₄). A review of patents demonstrating the use of barite in various fields, from radiation-shielding concrete to contrast agents for radiography and drilling fluids, is presented. A trend towards the use of barite nanoparticles and the development of environmentally friendly technologies is noted. The main focus is on the study of silicon dioxide (SiO₂) additives in BaCO₄ to improve the mechanical and thermal properties of composites. Synthesis methods (sol-gel and mechanical mixing), process parameters, and experimental results are described. It is shown that the addition of SiO₂ and the optimization of the firing temperature make it possible to obtain materials with improved characteristics. The research results demonstrate a synergistic effect of temperature and SiO₂ addition, leading to an increase in the strength and a decrease in the porosity of composites. Optimization of the firing parameters and the composition of the composite is critical to achieving high performance characteristics of the material.