Calcium Carbonate Heavy

Calcium Carbonate Heavy is a high-density, finely ground, natural mineral primarily composed of calcium carbonate (CaCO₃). Known for its higher bulk density compared to regular grades, this filler is widely used in applications requiring enhanced weight, opacity, and strength. It is commonly employed as a functional filler and extender in industries such as plastics, paints, coatings, adhesives, rubber, paper, and construction materials. Its inert nature, whiteness, and particle size distribution make it suitable for improving mechanical properties and surface finish, while also offering cost efficiency by replacing more expensive raw materials.

Description

Calcium Carbonate Heavy Uses

Primary Uses 

  1. Plastics Industry

    • Used as a heavy filler in polypropylene, polyethylene, PVC, and other polymers to improve density, stiffness, and impact resistance.

    • Enhances dimensional stability and surface quality in molded, extruded, and calendared plastic products.

    • Reduces overall production costs by substituting polymer content with mineral filler.

  2. Paints and Coatings

    • Acts as an extender and pigment in solvent-based and water-based paints to improve opacity, whiteness, and durability.

    • Enhances rheology and viscosity control in coating formulations.

  3. Rubber Industry

    • Serves as a reinforcing and weighting filler in synthetic and natural rubber compounds.

    • Improves hardness and abrasion resistance in rubber products.

  4. Paper Industry

    • Applied as a filler to improve brightness, opacity, and printability of paper and paperboard.

  5. Construction Materials

    • Used in cement, mortar, and plaster formulations to enhance strength and density.

    • Acts as a filler in putty and sealants.

Secondary Uses 

  1. Adhesives and Sealants

    • Enhances body and performance characteristics in adhesives and sealants.

  2. Agriculture

    • Occasionally used as a soil amendment to adjust pH and improve soil quality.

  3. Food Industry

    • Sometimes employed as a calcium supplement or anti-caking agent in specific food-grade applications (subject to regulatory compliance).
KEY ATTRIBUTES

1. Basic Identification Attributes

  • Chemical Name (IUPAC): Calcium carbonate

  • Common/Trade Name: Calcium Carbonate Heavy

  • CAS Number: 471-34-1

  • HS Code: 2836.50.00

  • Molecular Formula: CaCO₃

  • Synonyms:

    • Heavy calcium carbonate

    • High bulk density calcium carbonate

    • Dense calcium carbonate filler

2. Physical & Chemical Properties

  • Physical State: Fine white powder

  • Color & Odor: White; odorless

  • Bulk Density: Typically higher than standard grades; approx. 1.2–1.4 g/cm³ (varies by product specification)

  • Particle Size: Typically micron-sized particles optimized for uniform dispersion

  • Specific Surface Area: Moderate, depending on grinding and classification

  • Density: True density approx. 2.7–2.8 g/cm³

  • Solubility: Insoluble in water; reacts with acids releasing CO₂ gas

  • pH: Slightly alkaline when suspended in water (pH ~9)

  • Melting Point: Decomposes at ~825°C with release of CO₂

  • Stability: Chemically inert and stable under normal conditions

3. Safety & Hazard Attributes

  • Hazard Class (GHS): Not classified as hazardous; nuisance dust

  • NFPA Ratings:

    • Health: 1

    • Flammability: 0

    • Reactivity: 0

  • Exposure Limits: OSHA PEL for calcium carbonate dust: 15 mg/m³ (total dust)

  • Toxicity: Low acute toxicity; inhalation of dust may cause respiratory irritation

  • Reactivity: Stable; avoid contact with strong acids which release CO₂

4. Storage & Handling Attributes

  • Storage Conditions: Store in a dry, well-ventilated area away from moisture

  • Container Type: Supplied in bags, bulk bags, or silos with dust control measures

  • Shelf Life: Indefinite if stored under proper conditions

  • Special Handling: Use PPE to avoid dust inhalation and contact

5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

  • FDA Status: Depending on grade, may be approved for indirect food contact or pharmaceutical use (check regulatory compliance)

  • Transportation: Not regulated as hazardous

  • Waste Disposal: Dispose in accordance with local regulations; considered non-hazardous industrial waste

6. Environmental & Health Impact

  • Ecotoxicity: Low environmental impact; naturally occurring mineral

  • Persistence: Persistent and chemically inert in the environment

  • Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate

  • Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic or mutagenic

  • Biodegradability: Not biodegradable

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

  • Dust mask or respirator (NIOSH-approved)

  • Gloves

  • Safety goggles

  • Protective clothing

Handling Measures:

  • Minimize dust generation

  • Use local exhaust ventilation or dust extraction

  • Handle in well-ventilated spaces

Storage Measures:

  • Keep containers tightly closed and dry

  • Protect from moisture and acids

Hygiene Practices:

  • Wash hands thoroughly after handling

  • Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking during handling

First Aid Measures

  • Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if respiratory symptoms occur

  • Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation develops

  • Eye Contact: Rinse eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical help if irritation persists

  • Ingestion: Low toxicity; rinse mouth and seek medical attention if large amounts ingested

Firefighting Measures

  • Fire Hazards: Non-flammable

  • Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, dry chemical, or CO₂ as appropriate for surrounding fire

  • Special Precautions: None specific; decomposition at very high temperature releases CO₂

  • Decomposition Products: Carbon dioxide gas