Calcium Carbonate

Calcium carbonate is a prevalent substance that exists naturally in rocks, primarily in the forms of calcite and aragonite, with limestone being the most well-known source. It is obtained through mining or quarrying and is referred to as Ground Calcium Carbonate (GCC). Alternatively, calcium carbonate can be produced from calcium oxide. This involves adding water to create calcium hydroxide, followed by the passage of carbon dioxide through the solution to cause the precipitation of calcium carbonate. This resulting form is known as precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC).

Synonyms
Argonite, Calcite, Chalk, Lime, Limestone, Marble, Ground Calcium Carbonate, GCC, Precipitated Calcium Carbonate, PCC, E170
Chemical Formula
CaCO3
CAS Number
471-34-1

Characteristics

Molar Weight
100.086 g/mol
Melting Point
825 °C
Boiling Point
decomposes
Density
2.71 g/cm³ (Calcite), 2.83 g/cm³ (Aragonite)
Forms
Grey, Powder, White

Uses and Applications

Key applications

  • Baking
  • Adhesives and Sealants
  • Agricultural
  • Household industrial
  • Paint and Coatings
  • Rubber
  • Floor coverings
  • Filler
  • Metallurgy
  • Plastics and polymers
  • Food additive
  • Nutritional supplements
  • Water treatment
  • Oil and Gas
  • Pulp and paper
  • Automotive
  • Personal care
  • Animal feed