Specular hematite, sometimes called “Micaceous Iron Oxide” has a metallic luster and appears to be a rock composed of shiny mica flakes. Instead those flakes are hematite. Even though this hematite has a silver color, it still produces a reddish streak – which is a key to hematite’s identification. Hardness testing on specular hematite is difficult because the specimens tend to crumble.
MIO pigment is used in paints to provide long-term durability. MIO paints have been used continuously since the early 1900’s to protect steel.
MIO, also known as specular haematite and flaky haematite, is a natural mineral ore that, after it is refined, consists mainly of Fe2O3. MIO differs in form and shape from the well-known iron oxides that are used as pigments for red, yellow, brown and black pigmentation. MIO shows a flaky, lamellar structure and is dark gray with a metallic sheen. The term “Micaceous” is used because the lamellar particles are similar to mica.
MIO is insoluble in water, organic solvents and alkalis and is only slightly soluble in strong acids at elevated temperatures. It is non-reactive with most chemicals and
is heat-stable up to its melting point of over 1,500°C.
MIO – Micaceous Iron Oxide – is considered an anti-corrosive additive used in many kinds of paints and Coating for over 100 years and is perhaps the most important barrier pigment used in coatings to protect Structural steel The flake-like gray or red MIO particles align parallel to the coated surface producing a layer of shield of overlapping plates.
MIO is used widely in protective coatings due to its outstanding anti-corrosive properties. When MIO is incorporated into a coating at an appropriate level, the flakes align parallel to the substrate surface, producing a shield or barrier of overlapping plates. The flakes are impermeable—a physical barrier is formed to the ingress of the water, oxygen and ions that corrode steel and degrade the binder system. MIO flakes are strong UV absorbers and very weather-resistant. This protects the surface of the binder system from the degrading action of UV and other
weathering elements. MIO reinforces the binder matrix and increases the substrate adhesion and inter-coat adhesion.
MIO is considered an anti-corrosive additive used in many kinds of paints and coating, it is perhaps the most important barrier pigment used in coatings to protect structural steel.
It is also used for durability and reliability on electrical and industrial equipment
