Ground Calcium Carbonate (GCC), also known as Ground Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3) SIMONO® GCC, is a common industrial mineral that is utilized in a variety of applications. GCC holds the largest share of the filler market, and there are few industrial minerals that can compete with GCC in terms of the combination of characteristics and cost.
The following are the most important GCC applications, as listed in the table below:
|
SIMONO® GCC |
Main roles |
Descriptions |
|
Adhesives and sealants |
|
GCC is often used as a main ingredient of sealants, fillers and ceramic tile adhesives (CTA's) |
|
Animal and pet feeds |
|
GCC is incorporated into animal feedstuffs as a dietary supplement and antacid |
|
Construction |
|
GCC has long been used as a filler in materials like asphalt, roofing felt and plasters. Increasingly other applications are emerging in the new areas of specialist concretes & grouts. Consistent particle size and handling characteristics are very important |
|
Environment |
|
GCC is a wholly naturally occurring source of alkalinity used for flue gas desulphurization in power stations, de-acidification of forests and rivers, and drinking water treatment. It can also be used as passive fire protection in hazardous environments, for example coal mines. |
|
Fertilizers |
|
Calcium Carbonate has long been recognized as a useful addition to soil for agriculture, stabilizing the acidity of soil and providing essential calcium for support of crops |
|
Food and household |
|
GCC is used as an inexpensive dietary calcium supplement and antacid, or as a chemical binder. It can be used in less obvious ways, for example in polishing and cleaning rice, or a cleaning component in shoe polish. |
|
Glass and ceramics |
|
GCC is an essential calcium component in the manufacture of container and flat glass. High purity, consistent color and low levels of impurities are essential. It is a common ingredient in pottery glazes |
|
Paints & surface-coatings |
|
GCC is used to bulk out or extend the resins & polymers in paints. Color is obviously important and GCC is used as an aid to pigmentation, and also to help control the finish (matt or gloss) |
|
Papers |
|
Fine grades of GCC are used extensively in paper manufacturing. Consistent particle sizing and color are essential. As an alkali material it reduces acidity of paper, improving the durability of printed material |
|
Plastics and composites |
|
GCC is widely used as a filler in plastic products, comprising up to 25% of the volume, adding density, improving rheology and reducing cost. GCC is often blended or "coated" with additives such as stearates to aid bonding within the plastic |
|
Rubber and elastomers |
|
GCC is useful as an extender and in controlling the flow properties of products which are to be molded or extruded. A widespread application is in latex carpet backing materials |