Dolomite
Dolomite
Dolomite is a sedimentary rock composed of calcium carbonate and magnesium carbonate. The mineral crystallizes in the trigonal crystal system. The crystals have a specific shape. It is also found in the form of compact fine or coarse granular masses. It has a glassy or pearly luster in some types. The color tends to be light reddish and it can be transparent, gray, or semi-transparent.
Uses Dolomite
- Has many uses. It is used as a decorative stone, concrete aggregate, and as a source of magnesium oxide. It is also used in a specialized process for magnesium production. It is considered an economically valuable rock for petroleum reservoirs. It acts as a host rock for Mississippi Valley-Type (MVT) ore deposits, which contain large layers of base metals such as lead, zinc, and copper.
- Dolomite is sometimes used in iron and steel smelting when the cost of limestone or calcite is high. Large quantities of processed dolomite are used in the polished glass industry.
- Dolomite is also used as a buffering agent in marine (saltwater) aquariums to help prevent minor fluctuations in water acidity or pH.
