Hematite is applicable in all types of drilling fluids, including freshwater, seawater and oil-base muds. It can be used to increase the density of all drilling and completion fluids to 25 lb/gal (3.0 SG).Hematite is most frequently used in high-density, oil-base muds. Fluids weighted with Hematite contain fewer solids by volume than those weighted with barite, making higher mud weights possible. It is especially useful in high-density kill fluids.

The quantity of  Hematite required can be calculated using the following formula:

                               1,750 (w2- w1)      

Hematite  , lb/bbl= ----------------------

                               41.66 -  w2

Where:

w1= Initial mud weight in lb/gal

w2= Desired mud weight in lb/ga

                                 5,000 (w2- w1)

Hematite, kg/m3 = -------------------------
                                     5.0 - w2

Where:

w1= Initial mud weight in specific gravity

w2= Desired mud weight in specific gravity

Physical appearance  : Dry – red to brown powder
Particle hardness        : 5 – 6 MOHS scale (1-10)
Bulk density                   :143 lb/ft3 (2,291 kg/m3)
Specific gravity              : 5.0
Particle size                   :<1.5% wt >200 mesh (75 micron)
                                         :<15% wt ~325 mesh (>45 micron)
                                         :<15% wt <6 micron
Soluble hardness        :<100 mg/kg