Coated Calcium Carbonate
Coated Calcium Carbonate is a fine, white, odorless powder consisting of naturally occurring ground calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) treated with a surface coating—typically stearic acid or other fatty acids—to enhance compatibility with non-polar matrices. This coating improves dispersion in plastic and rubber formulations, reduces moisture pickup, and enhances the physical properties of the final product. Compared to uncoated grades, coated calcium carbonate offers better hydrophobicity, improved flow properties, and stronger interfacial bonding in polymeric systems. It is widely used in plastics, rubber, paints, sealants, adhesives, paper, and more.
Coated Calcium Carbonate Uses
Primary UsesÂ
- Plastics Industry
- Used as a functional filler in polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), PVC, and thermoplastics.
- Improves dimensional stability, rigidity, and impact strength.
- Enhances dispersion and reduces compound viscosity.
- The stearic acid coating increases compatibility with polyolefins and reduces water absorption.
- Reduces material cost while maintaining mechanical performance.
- Rubber Industry
- Acts as a reinforcing agent and processing aid in natural and synthetic rubber.
- Improves tensile strength, elasticity, and abrasion resistance.
- Enhances surface finish and reduces curing time.
- Prevents moisture absorption, improving product shelf-life and consistency.
- Paints & Coatings
- Used as an extender pigment in architectural and industrial paints.
- Provides matting, opacity, and rheological control.
- Reduces oil absorption and improves weather resistance in exterior coatings.
- In powder coatings, it helps improve flow properties and electrostatic spray behavior.
- Adhesives & Sealants
- Used to modify rheology and reduce cost.
- Improves consistency, thixotropy, and bonding strength.
- Prevents cracking and enhances thermal resistance.
Secondary UsesÂ
- Cable & Wire Compounding
- Filler in sheathing and insulation materials.
- Enhances dielectric strength, flame resistance, and processability.
- Coated version provides better moisture resistance.
- Paper Industry (Limited Use)
- Used in specialty papers requiring enhanced smoothness and printability.
- Coated calcium carbonate can be employed where improved water resistance is needed.
- Masterbatch & Compounding
- Used in color and additive masterbatches to ensure uniform dispersion of pigments and fillers.
- Aids in maintaining pellet strength and batch consistency.
- Construction Materials
- Incorporated into dry mix mortars and sealants to enhance flowability and durability.
- Contributes to crack resistance and improved surface smoothness.
- Inks
- Used in some ink systems for its opacity and matting properties while maintaining low viscosity.
1. Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Calcium Carbonate
- Common/Trade Name: Coated Calcium Carbonate
- CAS Number: 471-34-1
- HS Code: 2836.50.00
- Molecular Formula: CaCO₃
- Synonyms:
- Surface-treated calcium carbonate
- Stearic acid coated CaCO₃
- Modified calcium carbonate
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Fine powder
- Color & Odor: White; odorless
- Particle Size (D50): Typically 1–5 microns (varies by grade)
- Surface Treatment: Stearic acid (typically 1–2% by weight)
- Density: ~2.7 g/cm³
- Oil Absorption: Lower than uncoated grades
- Moisture Content: <0.5%
- pH (10% slurry): 8.5–9.5
- Solubility: Insoluble in water; reacts with acids to release COâ‚‚
- Stability: Chemically stable under normal conditions
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
- Hazard Class (GHS): Not classified as hazardous
- NFPA Ratings:
- Health: 1
- Flammability: 1
- Reactivity: 0
- Exposure Limits:
- OSHA PEL: 15 mg/m³ (total dust)
- ACGIH TLV: 10 mg/m³
- Toxicity: Non-toxic; may cause mild irritation if inhaled as dust
- Reactivity: Inert; reacts with strong acids to release carbon dioxide
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture
- Container Type: Multi-layer paper or HDPE bags, or bulk containers
- Shelf Life: Indefinite if stored properly
- Special Handling:
- Use dust extraction during bulk handling
- Avoid breathing dust
- Store away from acids
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- FDA Status: Indirect food additive (restricted uses)
- REACH Status: Registered
- RoHS/ELV: Compliant
- Transportation: Not regulated as hazardous material
- Waste Disposal: Dispose according to local regulations; environmentally safe
6. Environmental & Health Impact
- Ecotoxicity: Non-toxic to aquatic and terrestrial life
- Persistence: Stable and non-reactive in the environment
- Bioaccumulation: Does not bioaccumulate
- Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic
Biodegradability: Not biodegradable but environmentally inert
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Safety Handling Precautions
PPE Requirements:
- Dust mask or respirator
- Safety goggles
- Gloves and protective clothing if prolonged exposure
Handling Measures:
- Avoid creating dust clouds
- Use adequate ventilation
- Avoid contact with eyes and prolonged inhalation of dust
Storage Guidelines:
- Keep containers tightly sealed
- Store away from moisture and strong acids
- Use first-in, first-out inventory rotation
Hygiene Practices:
- Wash hands after handling
- Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in handling areas
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if symptoms persist
- Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water
- Eye Contact: Rinse immediately with water for 15 minutes; seek medical advice if irritation continues
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth; not considered toxic, but seek medical advice for large amounts
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Non-flammable
- Extinguishing Media: Use media suitable for surrounding fire
- Special Precautions: Avoid dust accumulation in fire-prone areas
- Decomposition Products: None under normal fire conditions