Coated Calcium Carbonate in Vadodarais a refined version of natural calcium carbonate, modified with surface coatings, typically stearic acid, to enhance its properties for specific industrial applications. Known for its wide range of uses across multiple industries, including plastics, paints, rubber, and construction, this treated material is valued for its ability to improve product performance while keeping production costs low. In this article, we will explore what coated calcium carbonate powder is, how it’s made, and its various applications and benefits in industrial manufacturing.
Typical Chemical & PHYSICAL Analysis
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| CaCo3 | 98 ± 1 |
| MgCO3 | 2+1 |
| Al-silicate | < 1% |
| Fe2O3 | < 0.1% |
| Moisture | 0.2% (Ex works) |
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|---|---|
| Sp.Gravity | 2.7 |
| Bulk Density | 950 gm/lit |
| Oil Absorption | 19% |
| PH of Sat Solution | 8.2 |
| Moisture | 0.2% (Ex works) |
| Particle Size | Average | Top Cut |
| Distribution | 3.0 M | 12 M |
What is Coated Calcium Carbonate Powder?
Calcium carbonate is a naturally occurring mineral found in rocks such as limestone, chalk, and marble. It is widely used in its unmodified form as an additive and filler material in various industries. However, when surface-treated with a coating agent like stearic acid, calcium carbonate undergoes a transformation that enhances its compatibility with non-polar materials like plastics and rubbers, improving its dispersion and overall performance. This coated version is what we call coated calcium carbonate powder.
The coating process involves treating fine calcium carbonate particles with stearic acid or another suitable agent. This surface treatment modifies the particle’s characteristics, making it hydrophobic (water-repellent) and more compatible with certain industrial processes. As a result, the coated calcium carbonate powder can easily blend with hydrophobic materials such as polymers, making it ideal for manufacturing products like plastics and rubber.
How is Coated Calcium Carbonate Powder Made?
The production of coated calcium carbonate powder involves several steps, including the extraction of raw calcium carbonate and its subsequent modification.
- Mining and Crushing: Calcium carbonate is extracted from quarries where limestone, chalk, or marble is abundant. The raw material is then crushed into smaller pieces, which are further processed to produce fine calcium carbonate powder.
- Grinding and Milling: The crushed calcium carbonate is ground to achieve a fine, uniform particle size. This process is critical, as finer particles are essential for certain applications like plastics and paints.
- Coating Process: Once the desired particle size is obtained, the calcium carbonate powder undergoes surface treatment. Typically, this is done by coating the powder with stearic acid. The coating agent is applied to the surface of the particles, either by a wet or dry coating method, depending on the manufacturer’s preference. The coating improves the powder’s compatibility with hydrophobic materials and enhances its overall performance in specific applications.
- Final Processing and Packaging: After coating, the powder is dried, sifted, and packaged for distribution. The final product is a high-quality coated calcium carbonate powder that can be used in various industrial applications.
Applications of Coated Calcium Carbonate Powder
Coated calcium carbonate powder is a versatile material used in a wide range of industries due to its enhanced properties and cost-effectiveness. Let’s explore some of the key sectors where this material is commonly used:
1. Plastics Industry
In the plastics industry, coated calcium carbonate powder is a popular additive due to its ability to improve the mechanical properties of plastic products. It is used as a filler in polymers like polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), helping to reduce production costs while maintaining the product’s strength, rigidity, and surface finish. The hydrophobic nature of the coated calcium carbonate allows it to disperse evenly within the plastic matrix, leading to better processing and higher-quality end products.
2. Rubber Industry
Coated calcium carbonate powder is also widely used in the rubber industry as a reinforcing filler. It improves the tensile strength and elasticity of rubber products while also enhancing their resistance to wear and tear. The hydrophobic coating ensures that the calcium carbonate does not absorb moisture, making it ideal for applications in outdoor rubber products such as tires, hoses, and gaskets.
3. Paints and Coatings
In the paints and coatings industry, coated calcium carbonate powder is used as an extender pigment. It increases the opacity and brightness of paints, improving their overall coverage and quality. Coated calcium carbonate also enhances the durability of paints, making them more resistant to environmental factors like moisture and UV exposure. Its fine particle size allows for a smooth finish in both liquid and powder coatings.
4. Construction Materials
Coated calcium carbonate powder is frequently used in the construction industry as a filler in adhesives, sealants, and other building materials. It improves the workability, strength, and overall performance of these materials. Additionally, it is used in concrete and asphalt mixtures to enhance durability and reduce cracking over time.
Benefits of Using Coated Calcium Carbonate Powder
The use of coated calcium carbonate powder offers several benefits in industrial applications:
- Improved Dispersion: The hydrophobic coating ensures that the powder disperses evenly in non-polar materials like plastics, rubbers, and paints, resulting in better product quality.
- Cost-Effective: As a filler, it helps reduce the overall cost of production without compromising the performance or quality of the final product.
- Enhanced Properties: Coated calcium carbonate improves the strength, rigidity, and durability of materials, making it an essential component in industries like plastics, rubber, and construction.
- Environmentally Friendly: Calcium carbonate is a natural, non-toxic, and sustainable material, making it an eco-friendly choice for manufacturers.
Conclusion
Coated calcium carbonate powder is a versatile industrial material that offers a wide range of benefits for various applications. Its ability to enhance the properties of products while reducing costs makes it a valuable component in industries like plastics, rubber, paints, and construction. From improving product strength to ensuring better processing, coated calcium carbonate powder continues to be a key player in the world of industrial manufacturing.
For businesses seeking top-quality coated calcium carbonate powder, Airotech Minerals provides reliable products that meet the highest industry standards, ensuring optimal performance in various applications.
