Calcium carbonate powder is a vital industrial mineral with diverse applications, ranging from construction to pharmaceuticals. In China, the production and consumption of this versatile compound have seen significant growth, making it essential for various sectors. Understanding its role in the Chinese market is crucial for businesses and researchers alike.
This guide will delve into the production processes, quality standards, and market trends of calcium carbonate powder in China. Readers can expect to gain insights into sourcing, applications, and the competitive landscape. By the end, you will have a comprehensive understanding of this important material and its implications for various industries.
Comprehensive Guide to Calcium Carbonate Powder
Calcium carbonate powder is a versatile and widely used chemical compound with applications across various industries. It is primarily derived from limestone, marble, and chalk, and is known for its white color and fine texture. This guide will delve into the technical features, types, and applications of calcium carbonate powder, providing insights into its significance in industries such as plastics, pharmaceuticals, food, and more.
Technical Features of Calcium Carbonate Powder
Calcium carbonate (CaCO3) is a naturally occurring mineral that plays a crucial role in various industrial processes. Below is a comparison table highlighting its key technical features:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | CaCO3 |
| Molecular Weight | 100.09 g/mol |
| Appearance | White powder or crystalline solid |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water; soluble in acids (e.g., hydrochloric acid) |
| Density | 2.71 g/cm³ |
| pH Level | Neutral (around 9-10 in aqueous solution) |
| Melting Point | Decomposes at 825 °C (1517 °F) |
| Reactivity | Reacts with acids to produce carbon dioxide gas |
| Uses | Filler in plastics, rubber, paints, and coatings; pH regulator in agriculture |
Types of Calcium Carbonate Powder
Calcium carbonate powder comes in various forms, each tailored for specific applications. The following table outlines the different types of calcium carbonate and their characteristics:
| Type | Description | Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Calcium Carbonate (GCC) | Produced by crushing and grinding limestone; has a coarse texture. | Used in construction, paper, and plastics. |
| Precipitated Calcium Carbonate (PCC) | Manufactured through a chemical process; has a fine and uniform particle size. | Used in pharmaceuticals, food, and cosmetics. |
| Nano Calcium Carbonate | Extremely fine particles (less than 100 nm); offers unique properties. | Used in advanced materials, coatings, and electronics. |
| Activated Calcium Carbonate | Treated to enhance its reactivity; often used in specialized applications. | Used in rubber and plastics for improved performance. |
| Heavy Calcium Carbonate | A type of GCC with a higher density; often used in industrial applications. | Used in paints, coatings, and sealants. |
| Light Calcium Carbonate | A form of PCC with lower density; used where lightweight properties are desired. | Used in food and pharmaceuticals as a filler. |
Applications of Calcium Carbonate Powder
Calcium carbonate powder is utilized in a multitude of industries due to its beneficial properties. Here are some of the primary applications:
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Plastics and Polymers: Calcium carbonate is used as a filler to enhance the mechanical properties of plastics, making them more durable and cost-effective. Companies like Changzhou Calcium Carbonate Co., Ltd specialize in producing high-quality calcium carbonate for this purpose.
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Pharmaceuticals: In the pharmaceutical industry, calcium carbonate serves as a buffering agent and a filler in tablets. It helps maintain pH levels during fermentation processes, making it essential for drug formulation. Shanghai Calcium Carbonate Factory Co., Ltd provides pharmaceutical-grade calcium carbonate.
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Food Industry: Calcium carbonate is widely used as a food additive, providing essential calcium and acting as a nutritional enhancer. It is often found in dairy products and supplements. Caco3 China offers food-grade calcium carbonate suitable for various applications.
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Construction: In construction, calcium carbonate is used as a filler in cement and concrete, improving strength and durability. It is also used in the production of lime, which is essential for various construction processes.
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Agriculture: Calcium carbonate is used to improve soil quality and as a feed additive for livestock. It helps regulate pH levels in soil, promoting better crop yields.
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Cosmetics: In the cosmetics industry, calcium carbonate is used as a filler in powders and creams, providing texture and enhancing product stability.
Conclusion
Calcium carbonate powder is an essential compound with diverse applications across multiple industries. Its unique properties, such as high purity, neutral pH, and versatility, make it a preferred choice for manufacturers. Companies like Arawali Supply Chain Solutions are at the forefront of producing high-quality calcium carbonate products, catering to various industrial needs. Understanding the different types and applications of calcium carbonate can help businesses make informed decisions about their material requirements.
FAQs
1. What is calcium carbonate powder used for?
Calcium carbonate powder is used in various industries, including plastics, pharmaceuticals, food, construction, and agriculture, primarily as a filler, pH regulator, and nutritional enhancer.
2. How is precipitated calcium carbonate different from ground calcium carbonate?
Precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC) is produced through a chemical process, resulting in finer and more uniform particles, while ground calcium carbonate (GCC) is made by crushing and grinding limestone, resulting in a coarser texture.
3. Is calcium carbonate safe for food use?
Yes, food-grade calcium carbonate is safe for consumption and is commonly used as a food additive to provide calcium and enhance nutritional value.
4. Can calcium carbonate be used in cosmetics?
Yes, calcium carbonate is used in cosmetics as a filler and thickening agent, providing texture and stability to products like powders and creams.
5. Where can I find high-quality calcium carbonate products?
High-quality calcium carbonate products can be sourced from companies like Changzhou Calcium Carbonate Co., Ltd, Shanghai Calcium Carbonate Factory Co., Ltd, and Arawali Supply Chain Solutions.