The Nepheline Syenite Mine Excursion

Описание: Canadian Nepheline has been mined in the Havelock area for generations. Nepheline ore was discovered here in the 1890’s, and mining has taken place here for 80 years, with the Nephton mine beginning in 1935 and Blue Mountain in 1955. Covia purchased the site in 1989. Canadian Nepheline has been prized for its qualities since its discovery.

It is an inert igneous rock formed out of molten magma. Similar to granite, Canadian Nepheline is made up of three types of minerals; the microcline form of feldspar, the albite form of feldspar and nepheline.

In glass and ceramics, Canadian Nepheline provides the alkalis that act as a flux. These lower the melting temperature of ceramic mixture and glass, prompting faster melting. In glass, Canadian nepheline supplies alumina. This provides the final produce with an enhanced resistance to scratching and breaking. Nepheline has a high strength and excellent weather-resistant properties, which are useful in the construction industry.

Canadian Nepheline also enhances the workability of glass batches by lowering the viscosity. It imparts a unique quality of toughness to the glass, making the glass resistant to breakage.

In paints, Canadian Nepheline reduces the need for volatile organic compounds, significantly reducing the environmental impact of paints and increasing the safety of their use.