Light Calcium Carbonate (LCC) is an important inorganic mineral compound widely used across numerous industries due to its unique physical and chemical properties.
It is produced as a fine, white, lightweight powder and serves as an essential raw material in plastics, coatings, paper, rubber, and food industries.

Chemical Structure

Light Calcium Carbonate consists of calcium ions (Ca²⁺) and carbonate ions (CO₃²⁻).
In nature, it occurs in mineral forms such as calcite, aragonite, and marble.
Its crystalline structure provides excellent mechanical stability, chemical balance, and compatibility in a wide range of industrial formulations.

Property	Description
Chemical Formula	CaCO₃
Molecular Weight	100.09 g/mol
Crystal Forms	Calcite, Aragonite
Bond Type	Ionic
Chemical Classification	Inorganic Carbonate

Physical and Chemical Properties

Property	Typical Value / Description
Appearance	Very fine, white, odorless powder
Bulk Density	Approx. 0.5–0.8 g/cm³ (light grade)
True Density	~2.71 g/cm³
Melting / Decomposition Point	~825°C (decomposes to CaO + CO₂)
Solubility in Water	Practically insoluble
Solubility in Acids	Reacts with dilute acids, releasing CO₂
Chemical Stability	Stable under normal conditions
pH (suspension in water)	Slightly alkaline
Toxicity	Non-toxic and environmentally safe

Main Applications

1. Plastics and Polymers:
Used as a filler and reinforcing agent to improve rigidity, dimensional stability, and reduce production cost.

2. Paints and Coatings:
Acts as an opacifier and extender, enhancing whiteness, smoothness, and coverage.

3. Paper Industry:
Provides brightness, opacity, and smooth surface finish, improving print quality and reducing ink absorption.

4. Pharmaceuticals and Food Industry:
Used as a calcium supplement, pH regulator, and permitted additive in food and medicinal formulations (E170).

5. Rubber and Adhesives:
Improves tensile strength, elasticity, and workability in rubber compounds and sealants.

Advantages

Economical and widely available raw material.
Non-toxic and safe for both industrial and food-grade applications.
Improves mechanical properties and product durability.
Lightweight with uniform particle distribution.
Environmentally friendly and recyclable.

Limitations

Low water solubility limits its use in aqueous systems.
Dust generation during handling may cause mild respiratory irritation.
Reacts with acids, releasing CO₂ gas; should not be stored near acidic materials.

Safety and Handling

Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.
Avoid exposure to moisture to prevent lump formation.
Keep sealed containers away from acids and corrosive substances.
Use protective mask and gloves to minimize dust inhalation during handling.

Summary

Light Calcium Carbonate (CaCO₃) is a versatile, cost-effective, and safe mineral additive with broad applications in plastics, coatings, paper, rubber, and food.
Its fine particle size, high whiteness, and chemical stability make it one of the most commonly used fillers and performance enhancers in modern industrial formulations.