BARIUM SULFATE Resistant O-Rings and Seals

Barium sulfate, also known as barite, is a white crystalline mineral commonly used as a weighting agent in oil and gas drilling fluids, as a filler in paint, as an additive in glass, and in other industrial and medical applications. Common failures with rubber exposed to barium sulfate include physical degradation, swelling and softening, and chemical attacks. Physical degradation occurs when the barium sulfate particles abrade the rubber surface, leading to surface wear and tear. Swelling and softening occurs when the barium sulfate particles are absorbed into the rubber, leading to a decrease in hardness and elasticity. Chemical attacks occur when the barium sulfate reacts with the rubber, leading to corrosion and breakdown of the rubber material.