Technical Information

Polymer
One competitive step ahead

GLK: DS ATO MAO3

Effective
October 1999
Supersedes November 1997

Additives

Great Lakes
Chemical Corporation

MICROFINE AO3 AND AO3-HP

ANTIMONY TRIOXIDE
CAS No. [1309644]
Microfine AO3 is a sub-micron particle size antimony trioxide with an average particle size of
0.3 microns. This product is produced under very carefully controlled conditions to ensure not only
a very fine and consistent average particle size but also a narrow particle size distribution with the
absolute minimum of coarser particles above one micron. The product is predominantly
senarmontite (cubic crystal form), with a high tinting strength and a bright white powder color. This
product is available in both standard and high purity grades designated Microfine AO3 and
Microfine AO3 HP respectively.

Microfine AO3 finds application as a flame retardant, when used in combination with a source of
halogen. In rigid and plasticized PVC compounds, the addition of controlled amounts of Microfine
AO3 will confer excellent flame retardant properties. In other plastics, paints and textiles, which do
not contain halogen, a suitable chlorinated or brominated compound must be added with the
Microfine AO3 in order to obtain the required flame-retardant properties. Microfine AO3 is
especially recommended in coating applications (paint, paper, textiles and adhesives) where its
very fine particle size can give benefits of improved suspension stability, smoother surface finish
and improved physical properties along with its high white pigmenting power. Microfine AO3
also finds application in thermoplastic compounds where tensile and impact properties are critical
or in very thin wall applications to improve surface finish and electrical properties.
Microfine AO3 also finds application as a catalyst and chemical reactant. The very fine particle
size provides an improved reactivity over other grades of antimony trioxide. In this application
Microfine AO3 HP is usually the product of choice due to its higher chemical purity.

The information supplied is presented in good faith and has been derived from sources believed to be reliable. Since conditions of use are beyond our control, all risks are assumed by the user. No
representation is expressed or implied, and nothing herein shall be construed as permission or recommendation to practice a patented invention without a license.

One Great Lakes Boulevard P.O. Box 2200 West Lafayette, IN 47996-2200 Telephone 765-497-6100
http://www.greatlakeschem.com

Polymer
One competitive step ahead

GLK: DS ATO MAO3

Effective
October 1999
Supersedes November 1997

Technical Information
Microfine AO3 and AO3-HP

Typical Properties
Appearance
Specific Gravity
Refractive Index
Loose Bulk Density, lb/ft 3
Packed Bulk Density, lb/ft 3
Particle Size avg., Sedigraph
Fineness thru 325 mesh sieve
Surface Area (BET) sq. m/gm
Tinting Strength % of standard
Moisture, 2 hrs @ 105C
Water Soluble

Very Fine White Powder

5.5
2.1
24-26
36-38
0.2 - 0.4 microns
99.995%
10-11
120-130
0.1%
Maximum
0.25%
Maximum

Typical Composition
Antimony Trioxide
Arsenic
Lead
Iron
Nickle
Copper
Acidity (H2SO4)

Sb2O3
As
Pb
Fe
Ni
Cu

Microfine AO3
99.3%
Minimum
0.3%
Maximum
0.2%
Maximum
0.01%
Maximum
0.005% Maximum
0.005% Maximum
0.15%
Maximum

Microfine AO3 -HP

99.5%
Minimum
0.1%
Maximum
0.1%
Maximum
0.003% Maximum
0.001% Maximum
0.001% Maximum
0.04%
Maximum

The use of proper protective equipment is recommended. Excess exposure to the product should
be avoided. Wash thoroughly after handling. Store the product in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area
away from incompatible materials. Unless stated, proper storage will permit usage of the product
for 6 to 12 months from the date of receipt. For additional handling and toxicological information,
consult GLCC Material Safety Data Sheets # 00468 for AO3 and # 00386 for AO3-HP.
The standard package is a multi-walled 25 lb. paper sack or shrinks wrapped 2000 lb. to a skid.

The information supplied is presented in good faith and has been derived from sources believed to be reliable. Since conditions of use are beyond our control, all risks are assumed by the user. No
representation is expressed or implied, and nothing herein shall be construed as permission or recommendation to practice a patented invention without a license.

One Great Lakes Boulevard P.O. Box 2200 West Lafayette, IN 47996-2200 Telephone 765-497-6100
http://www.greatlakeschem.com

Additives

Great Lakes
Chemical Corporation