Possibility of using limestone from Vučića Brijeg-Ulcinj deposit as a filler in various industry branches

Abstract

This paper presents results of investigations of the possibility of us-ing “Vučića Brijeg”-Ulcinj limestone (Republic Montenegro) as filler in vari-ous industry branches. Micronization methods, granulometric composition, oil and water absorption and degree of whiteness were investigated, and chemical and thermal analyses (DT/TG) were performed. Physico-chemical properties of this limestone classify it among high quality car-bonate raw materials with high CaCO3 content of 97.87%, as well as MgO con-tent of 1.04% (2,18% content of MgCO3 ) and low silicate content (SiO2 0.40%). Its quality satisfies requirements of standards on using of calcium carbonate as filler in industry of paints and coatings; paper industry; rubber and PVC industry; glass industry; production of mineral fertilizers; foundry industry; sugar industry and metallurgy. Due to the low degree of whiteness (81.65%) „Vučića Brijeg” limestone cannot be used in pharmaceutical and cosmetics industry. Due to rela- tively high content of heavy metals, Pb (55 ppm), Cu (10 ppm), Ni (23ppm) and Cd (5 ppm), “Vučića Brijeg”-Ulcinj limestone cannot be used, in production of cattle feed and for neutralization of acidic soils.