Precipitated Calcium Carbonate (PCC) is the compound found in calcium carbonate ores. It has a structure similar to limestone and chalk and a similar chemical compound i.e. CaCO3.
Precipitated calcium carbonate is a purified form of ground calcium carbonate (GCC). Calcium Carbonate undergoes chemical processes to enhance the filler properties of Precipitated Calcium Carbonate (PCC).
Different Types of Precipitated Calcium Carbonate (PCC)
PCC is of two types- coated PCC and uncoated PCC. The opacity and whiteness of PCC are crucial factors in its usage in different industries.
The natural calcium carbonate found in the earth’s crust is water-loving in nature i.e. it is hydrophilic.
The hydrophilic nature poses a problem when PCC is mixed with polymers like in the paint and plastic industry.
It means that due to high surface energy, the particles end up having too much friction, which disperses the PCC particles and results in low binding strength.
So to make it hydrophobic and more organic-loving, the most common method is to add fatty acids.
Stearic acid is the most common fatty acid added to precipitated calcium carbonate.
One end of stearic acid has an acidic part that attaches to the polar surface of precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC). However, a very small percentage (about 1%) of fatty acid should be added to the calcium carbonate.
The amount of fatty acid also depends on the surface area of calcium carbonate particles.
To get an even coat on the calcium carbonate, a water solution of fatty acid is sprayed on the dry calcium carbonate.
The drawback, however, is that the resultant PCC sticks very strongly to organic materials.
Uncoated PCC is useful in sectors where high brightness and opacity is the predominant factor.
An uncoated calcium carbonate has a 98% whiteness percentage and 96% brightness percentage.
Further, it has 98.5% of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and 0.02% of each iron oxide, aluminium oxide, and magnesium oxide.
Since the uncoated calcium carbonate is free from any harmful chemicals, uncoated PCC for the food and pharmaceutical industries is in great demand.
The uncoated calcium carbonate has consistent particle size and dispersibility.
What are the Applications and Benefits of Precipitated Calcium Carbonate
Precipitated calcium carbonate is the best filler for paper, plastics, rubber, paint, and ink industries.
It enhances the brightness and opacity of the products. PCC also enhances the distributive properties of products. PCC for paints acts as a substitute for TiO2.
Why Choose Shree Karni Chemicals for Precipitated Calcium Carbonate?
Shree Karni Chemicals is one of the leading producers of precipitated calcium carbonate for various industries. We provide high-grade PCC satisfactory to the needs of all our clients.
Our PCC for different industries offers high brightness and opacity. It acts as a great filler for paint industries.
We are the largest producer of precipitated calcium carbonate in Bikaner, Rajasthan, and continue to provide high-quality services to our clients in India and other countries.
November 14, 2022
November 4, 2022
October 14, 2022
October 13, 2022
October 11, 2022
Leave a Reply