mica formula review

Mica is a group of hydrous potassium, aluminum silicate minerals that occur as non-fibrous plates. The general formula for minerals of the mica group is XY2–3Z4O10(OH, F)2 with X = K, Na, Ba, Ca, Cs, (H3O), (NH4); Y = Al, Mg, Fe2+, Li, Cr, Mn, V, Zn; and Z = Si, Al, Fe3+, Be, Ti. Mica sheets possess perfect cleavage and properties like elasticity, low thermal, high dielectric strength, and electric conductivity. Mica is used in various applications, including electrical and thermal insulation, cosmetics, medicines, and peepholes in lanterns, boilers, and stoves. In cosmetics, mica is used as a colorant due to its reflective and refractive properties. Mica is also used in the production of complex injection-molded parts in plastics, where it improves flexural modulus and heat deflection temperature and contributes to reducing shrinkage and warpage.