Characterization Of Nigerian Barite

ABSTRACT

Barite is a mineral consisting of barium sulfate (BaSO4). It is commonly used as weighting material for drilling in the oil and gas industry. It is a relatively inert mineral with a high density ranging between 4.2 – 4.6.
This project analytically characterize the properties of different barite viz. the following parameters: specific gravity, wet screen, soluble alkaline earth metals, moisture content, lost on ignition and performance analysis of brief history of Yala Deposit, Yala Local Government Area of Cross River State.
Some of the barite specific gravities of falls within the range of 4.2 – 4.5, which are with respect to depth. The performance test for the 200microns size barite particle gave values of 19cP for plastic viscosity and 13cP for yield point. Thus conforms to the standard specification as indicated in Table 2.5.
The results show that the barites have appreciable values making the Nigerian barite suitable as weighting agent in drilling fluid and a good source of income earnings for individuals, corporate organizations and Government investors.