CALCIUM STEARATE

Calcium Stearate is a white, waxy powder commonly used in a variety of industries as a lubricant, stabilizer, water repellent, and release agent. It is a calcium salt derived from stearic acid and is known for its excellent lubricating properties, compatibility with different materials, and non-toxicity. Due to its multifunctional uses, calcium stearate is widely employed in sectors such as plastics, rubber, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, paper, and food processing.

Applications of “Calcium Stearate”

1. Plastics and Rubber Industry:
   • Lubricant: In plastics manufacturing, calcium stearate acts as a lubricant and internal/external mold release agent, improving the processing of materials like PVC and other thermoplastics. It reduces friction, prevents sticking, and enhances the flowability of the material during molding or extrusion processes.
   • Stabilizer: Calcium stearate is used as a stabilizer in the production of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and other polymers to improve heat stability and prevent degradation during high-temperature processing.
2. Pharmaceutical Industry:
   • Tablet Manufacturing: In the pharmaceutical industry, calcium stearate is utilized as a glidant and lubricant during the tablet production process. It helps to improve tablet compression, prevent sticking to machinery, and ensure consistent tablet quality.
   • Excipient: It is used as an excipient to enhance the release of active ingredients in pharmaceuticals.
3. Cosmetics and Personal Care:
   • Thickening Agent: Calcium stearate is commonly found in creams, lotions, and other cosmetic formulations as a thickening agent that provides a smooth texture and consistency to the product.
   • Anti-Caking Agent: It prevents powders from clumping and helps maintain product stability in cosmetics and personal care products like pressed powders, foundations, and blushes.
4. Food Industry:
   • Food Additive: It is used as an anti-caking agent and lubricant in food products, ensuring powders like spices and condiments maintain their free-flowing nature. Calcium stearate is recognized as a safe food additive (E470) by various food safety authorities.
5. Paper Industry:
   • Water Repellent: In the paper industry, calcium stearate is used as a water-repellent agent, helping to improve the quality of the paper by enhancing its surface properties and reducing moisture absorption.
6. Construction:
   • Waterproofing Agent: Calcium stearate is added to cement and concrete mixtures to improve water resistance and durability, making it ideal for construction projects requiring waterproofing solutions.