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One of the softest minerals in the world, talcum powder repels water, absorbs oil, retains scents and is chemically inert. Composed of oxygen, magnesium, silicon and water, the mineral is neither explosive nor flammable, according to the Industrial Minerals Association North America (IMA-NA). These properties of talc are why it is a vital additive in many everyday products.
Start Paper contains talcum powder.
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According to the World Mineral Exchange, talcum powder's use in paper has been greatly increasing since the 1960s. According to Minerals Technologies, the paper industry is the biggest consumer of talc. Used in uncoated and coated paper, talc absorbs sticky pulp particles to prevent deposition in paper mills. Talc improves productivity, printability and the quality of paper. Talcum powder used by paper mills is required to be of pure white quality and free of grit.
Baby powder is made with talcum powder.
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Baby powder and cosmetics are some of the most popular products known to contain talcum powder. The softness and oil absorption it offers make it a primary ingredient in blushes, eye shadows and powder compacts. The oleophilic nature of talc makes it popular for dusting on the body in both baby powder and body cream. Talc used in cosmetics is required to be of high purity and is reduced to fine particles for preparation.
Talcum powder is used in ceramics.
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When added to ceramic mixtures, talcum powder prevents glazes from cracking. Valued for its stability and ability to withstand high temperatures, talc is found in floor and wall tiles, jars, tableware and other building ceramics. Another large consumer of talcum powder, the ceramic industry also values talc for its extremely low shrinkage.
Talc can be used with plastic bags.
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Talc acts as a functional filler in the plastic industry and provides rigidity to plastic, explains the United States Geological Survey. In blown polyethylene films, such as plastic bags, talc can be used as an anti-block that allows for the ease of separation between the two faces. It is also used in plastic food packaging and automotive parts to reduce weight.
Chewing gum is coated with talc.
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Talc coats some foods such as chewing gum, candy and cured meat in order to prevent sticking. It also improves olive oil clarity when used in processing aid during production. Specialty talc accelerates sedimentation of bacteria in wastewater treatment plants. It also acts as an anti-caking and dispersing agent in animal feed in the agricultural industry, says the IMA-NA. Talc is added to decorative paints as an extender and reduces sagging and cracking. Talcum powder can be spread along house foundations and doors to repel ants.
