Calcium Carbonate Fillers

Abstract

Calcium carbonate fillers have ideal properties for many polymer applications and the world consumption is over ten million tonnes annually. Both natural (ground (natural) calcium carbonates, GCC) and synthetic forms are in use and can be derived from abundant and widely occurring natural deposits. The natural forms are available with a wide particle-size range (0.5 to over 100 μm), are less expensive to manufacture, and have the bulk of the market. They are widely used in thermoplastics, thermosets, and elastomers. The synthetic (precipitated) forms used in polymer applications fall into the nano-size range (under 100 nm) and are used where such small particles are beneficial. Their main use is in elastomers and PVC. Fatty acid surface coatings are often added and there are also specialized coupling agents available.

Ground (natural) calcium carbonates (GCC) is a critical and functional mineral for plastics, and there is no doubt that it will continue to be one of the principal fillers used by the polymer industry. While GCC fillers are long established, they continue to evolve. Developments in grinding are likely to result in even finer forms and increased opportunities. Examples of recent developments include an innovative mineral additive for fibers and nonwovens from Imerys known as FiberLink®. FiberLink increases softness, reduces luster, improves opacity, and improves tensile strength of the fabric/web.