Page "Sand casting" Paragraph 60

Olivine is a mixture of orthosilicates of iron and magnesium from the mineral dunite.

Its main advantage is that it is free from silica, therefore it can be used with basic metals, such as manganese steels.

Other advantages include a low thermal expansion, high thermal conductivity, and high fusion point.

Finally, it is safer to use than silica, therefore it is popular in Europe.