Whiting
Whiting is a finely ground, white, chalky substance primarily composed of calcium carbonate (CaCO₃). It is widely used as a pigment, filler, and extender in various industrial and commercial applications. Whiting provides opacity, brightness, and smoothness to products, enhancing their appearance and physical properties. Its natural abundance and versatility make it an economical additive in multiple manufacturing processes.
Whiting
Primary Uses
Paints and Coatings Industry
- Pigment & Filler: Used to improve opacity, whiteness, and consistency in paints, coatings, and primers.
Paper Industry
- Filler: Enhances brightness, opacity, and printability of paper and cardboard products.
Rubber Industry
- Filler: Improves mechanical properties, reduces cost, and enhances processing of rubber compounds.
Plastic Industry
- Extender & Filler: Increases volume and improves surface finish in plastic products such as PVC.
Secondary Uses
Cosmetics
- Ingredient: Used in powders and creams to provide opacity and absorb moisture.
Pharmaceuticals
- Excipient: Acts as an inert filler in tablets and powders.
Agriculture
- Soil Amendment: Used to adjust soil pH and improve soil structure in farming applications.
Construction
- Component: Used in plasters, sealants, and as a mild abrasive in cleaning compounds.
Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Calcium carbonate
- Common/Trade Name: Whiting, Chalk, Calcium Carbonate Powder
- CAS Number: 471-34-1
- HS Code: 2521.00.00
- Synonyms: Chalk, precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC), ground calcium carbonate (GCC)
Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Fine white powder
- Color & Odor: White, odorless
- Particle Size: Typically less than 10 microns (varies by grade)
- Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in dilute acids
- Density: Approx. 2.7 g/cm³
- pH: Neutral to slightly alkaline in aqueous suspension
Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification: Not classified as hazardous
- Toxicity: Low toxicity; generally safe under normal handling
- Exposure Limits: Avoid inhalation of dust; follow workplace dust exposure limits
Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in dry, well-ventilated areas away from moisture and contaminants
- Container Type: Bags, bulk bags, or bulk storage silos
- Shelf Life: Indefinite if kept dry and uncontaminated
- Handling Precautions: Minimize dust generation; use dust masks if needed
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Complies with: Major industrial chemical regulations and REACH standards
- Manufactured under: Good manufacturing practices for industrial grade materials
- Suitable for: Industrial, cosmetic, and agricultural applications depending on grade
Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Naturally occurring mineral; environmentally benign
- Ecotoxicity: Low risk to aquatic and terrestrial organisms
- Bioaccumulation: Not applicable
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE Required: Dust mask and eye protection recommended when handling powders
- Handling Guidelines: Use adequate ventilation to control dust; avoid inhalation
- Storage Measures: Keep containers sealed to prevent moisture ingress
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if breathing difficulty occurs
- Skin Contact: Wash with water and soap if irritation develops
- Eye Contact: Rinse eyes thoroughly with water; seek medical advice if irritation persists
- Ingestion: Generally non-toxic; consult a physician if large quantities ingested
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Non-flammable
- Extinguishing Media: Not applicable; use appropriate media for surrounding fire
- Hazardous Combustion Products: None from whiting itself