What is Micaceous Haematite?
The material produced by the ‘Shiny Ore’ mines, is an almost pure oxide of iron, with the chemical formula of Fe203. The main difference between this and common haematite, which is a source of the metal iron, is the structure of the oxide crystals. When viewed under a microscope they resemble the structure of mica, hence the term ‘micaceous’. It is this property coupled with its chemical inertness which makes it ideal for use in paint. How does the MIO paint work? When the paint is applied to a surface, the haematite flakes orientate themselves, during the drying or curing process, into layers more or less parallel to the surface. This results in interleaving and overlapping somewhat similar to fish-scales or roof tiles, resulting in a tight seal which acts as an effective barrier to corrosion from sea – spray, sulphur dioxide, ammonia and other pollutants. Moisture and oxygen, the primary cause of rust, cannot permeate the packed, layered structure of the paint. The haematite also rei
