Talc is a silicate mineral that is distinguished from almost all other minerals by its extreme softness. Its soapy or greasy feel accounts for the name soapstone.
Talc is used in a variety of applications; it is used as a filler in ceramics, paint, paper, roofing materials, plastics and rubber.
Talc is available in a range of specifications according to grain size. It is currently available from 5 microns upwards and up to a brightness of 95 (DIN53163).
All packaged products are available from 25kg bags - 1500kg bulk bags from our central store. Read more about packaging and lead time.
Minerals Marketing Limited
Talc is commonly used in cosmetic products, including face powders and foundations, due to its ability to absorb moisture and provide a smooth feel.
It acts as a filler or binder in tablets, ensuring proper texture and stability of the medicine.
Talc improves the suspension of solids in liquids, which aids in the application and finish of paints.
It is used to improve the printability and smoothness of paper.
Sometimes used as an anti-caking agent to prevent clumping.
Enhances the structural integrity and heat resistance of rubber and plastic products.
Talc is utilized in the ceramics industry for its role in improving the mechanical and thermal properties of ceramic products.
In agriculture, talc is employed as a carrier for fertilisers and pesticides, helping with even distribution and effective application.
Talc is often a component in personal care products like baby powder, where it is valued for its moisture-absorbing properties.
It is sometimes used in the production of textiles to enhance texture and assist in the manufacturing process.
Talc adds durability and weather resistance to roofing materials and flooring products, contributing to their long-lasting performance.
Softness |
Talc is known for being the softest mineral, rating at 1 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. Colour: It is typically white, grey, or pale green, with a pearly lustre. |
Feel |
Talc has a greasy or soapy feel, contributing to its use in personal care products like powder. |
Structure |
It has a layered structure consisting of sheets of magnesium oxide and silica, which can easily slip past each other. |
Chemical Composition |
Talc is primarily composed of hydrated magnesium silicate with the chemical formula Mg₃Si₄O₁₀(OH)₂. |
Heat Resistance |
It has excellent thermal resistance, making it suitable for use in heat-resistant materials. |
Minerals Marketing Limited
All packaged products are available from 25kg bags - 1500kg bulk bags from our central store. Read more about packaging and lead time.
Lead times are two days for all bagged products. For blending or specialist requirements, lead times will be agreed in advance for your convenience.
For most bulk products, next day deliveries are available through our streamlined bulk tanker/tipper service.
Read more about packaging and lead time.
All packaged products are available from 25kg bags - 1500kg bulk bags from our central store.
Read more about packaging and lead time.
Talc is a naturally occurring mineral composed of magnesium, silicon, and oxygen. It is widely used in various products like baby powder, cosmetics, and personal care items, owing to its ability to absorb moisture and provide a smooth feel.
While talc is generally regarded as safe for use in many commercial products, concerns have been raised about its link to various health issues, including respiratory problems and potential contamination with asbestos in natural deposits.
Talcum powder refers to the powdered form of pure talc mixed with a variety of other substances to produce the final product used for personal care. The composition can vary, highlighting the importance of checking product labels.
Alternatives to talc include corn starch, arrowroot powder, and baking soda, which serve similar moisture-absorbing functions. Many companies now offer talc-free products for those preferring not to use talc-based items.
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