Surface and structural changes in wet ground minerals

The effects of mill type, specific surface area and dispersants on the crystal lattice and surface properties as deduced from X-ray analysis of wet-milled dolomite, calcite and quartz are discussed. The structural characteristics of powders produced by grinding in both the CoBall and low amplitude Vibro-energy mills are similar, and differ only where the particle size difference is appreciable. Peak intensity reduction and a slight line broadening appear to be the common X-ray diffraction characteristics of the three wet-milled minerals. The lubrication action and enhanced heat conduction of a wet grinding environment are possibly responsible for the differences observed in the crystal habits of wet- as compared to dry-ground minerals.