The global market value of calcium carbonate was reported at $60.47 billion in 2023. The market value of this mineral, also known as calcite, aragonite, and limestone, is projected to grow from $62.76 billion in 2024 to $86.70 billion by 2030. In fact, the global demand for mineral calcium carbonate is continuously rising, and we are witnessing an increasing number of applications for this material across various industries.
In this content, we will discuss the physical and chemical properties, applications, forms, and pricing of this substance. At the end of the content, we will also introduce a specialized supplier of various types of calcium carbonate across the Middle East, to help you make an informed decision if you are looking to purchase this material.
Calcium carbonate is commonly referred to by the names aragonite, calcite, and limestone. The calcium carbonate common name is limestone, a mineral substance that is one of the most widely used materials known to mankind. The calcium carbonate chemical formula is CaCO₃, and while it is naturally found across the globe, it can also be produced synthetically. Calcium carbonate for industrial use is typically extracted from mines. This mineral is utilized in various industries, including the tile and ceramics industry, the plastics industry, and the paints and coatings industry.
The calcium carbonate molar mass is 100.087 grams per mole, and its appearance is a fine white powder. However, besides calcium carbonate powder, other forms of calcium carbonate such as lump form are also available in the market. The density of calcite is 2.71 g/cm³, while the density of aragonite is 2.83 g/cm³. This mineral decomposes at a temperature of 825°C. Calcium carbonate does not have a specific boiling point, as it decomposes before reaching boiling temperature, which is why its decomposition temperature is considered to be 825°C.
One common question about limestone is calcium carbonate soluble in water? In terms of solubility, it is only slightly soluble in cold water, but it has good solubility in dilute acids like hydrochloric acid. The solubility of calcium carbonate in water depends on various factors such as temperature, pressure, pH, and the amount of carbon dioxide in the water. Generally, increasing the temperature and pressure enhances calcium carbonate’s solubility in water. Additionally, adding CO₂ to water increases the solubility of calcium carbonate.
In its various forms, calcium carbonate is non-toxic, non-flammable, and acts as an electrical insulator. Another question that arises is calcium carbonate a base? The answer is yes, calcium carbonate is a base because when it reacts with an acid, it produces salt, water, and carbon dioxide. For example, the overall reaction of calcium carbonate with hydrochloric acid is as follows:
CaCO₃ + 2HCl → CaCl₂ + H₂O + CO₂
In this reaction, calcium chloride (a salt), water, and carbon dioxide are produced, which is why calcium carbonate is classified as a base.
Calcium carbonate has numerous applications and is used across a wide range of industries. Below, we will explore some of the most important calcium carbonate uses.
Calcium carbonate is a vital raw material for the construction industry and is used in the production of concrete and cement. It is also employed in the production of plaster, where it acts as a filler and setting regulator. Additionally, it enhances the strength and durability of bricks and blocks. Limestone, marble, and travertine, which are forms of calcium carbonate, are also used as decorative and building stones.
Calcium carbonate is also widely used in the paper industry, where it is added to paper pulp in a very fine powdered form as a filler and coating agent. It increases the weight and whiteness of paper and is applied as a coating to improve print quality. Calcium carbonate is a cheaper alternative to other fillers such as clay, significantly reducing paper production costs. Due to its whiteness, it also enhances the brightness of paper. Both natural and precipitated calcium carbonate are used in the paper industry.
In the plastic and rubber industry, calcium carbonate is used as a filler and reinforcement agent. Adding it to polymer compounds improves the physical and mechanical properties of the final products while also reducing production costs. Calcium carbonate is used in the production of PVC pipes, UPVC profiles, automotive parts, and various rubber products, including tires.
Calcium carbonate is one of the most commonly used minerals in the paint and coatings industry. Thanks to its unique properties, such as whiteness, affordability, and availability, it plays a key role in improving the quality and reducing the production costs of paints. As a filler, it increases the volume of paint, thereby improving coverage and reducing consumption. Moreover, calcium carbonate is cheaper than many other pigments, which helps lower production costs. It also enhances the paint’s resistance to abrasion, scratches, and environmental factors. Additionally, calcium carbonate can be used as a viscosity regulator, improving the texture and providing a smooth, even surface.
Both the food and pharmaceutical industries use calcium carbonate for various purposes. In the food industry, it serves as a dietary supplement. Calcium is essential for bone and dental health, and calcium carbonate is an affordable and widely available source of calcium used in dietary supplements and food products like infant formula. It can also be used as a mild base to regulate the pH of food products. For instance, it is added to chewing gum and carbonated beverages as a pH regulator.
Have you ever wondered why infant formula and powdered juice don’t clump? The reason is that calcium carbonate acts as an anti-caking agent, preventing particles from sticking together.
In the pharmaceutical industry, calcium carbonate is used to treat acid indigestion and heartburn due to its weak base properties. It neutralizes stomach acid, providing relief from symptoms. Additionally, it serves as a filler in the production of tablets, capsules, and other pharmaceutical forms, helping to reduce drug manufacturing costs and improve the physical properties of the medication.
Below are some key advantages of calcium carbonate, which contribute to its extensive use across different industries:
Currently, the number of calcium carbonate manufacturers worldwide is increasing, and as a result, the number of suppliers is also growing. These manufacturers price their products based on various factors, including production costs, labor expenses, equipment costs, and other considerations before offering them to the market. Ishtar Company is one of the specialized suppliers of calcium carbonate, always striving to source high-quality products from the best manufacturers and offer them to its customers at fair and reasonable prices.
For more information about calcium carbonate pricing, contact Ishtar’s experts at (+971) 524403255. They will provide you with all the necessary information.
The growing demand for calcium carbonate has led to numerous companies entering the production and supply of this mineral. Naturally, with many players in the field, calcium carbonate of varying quality is introduced to the market, making it more challenging for customers to make the right choice.
Customers looking to purchase high-quality and efficient calcium carbonate should seek suppliers and manufacturers committed to providing top-notch products and prioritizing customer satisfaction under all circumstances. One such specialized supplier in the Middle East is Ishtar Company, a subsidiary of Barus Holding Group, which has been active in the field of supply of chemical, petrochemical, and mineral products since 2007.
Ishtar Company strives to source calcium carbonate of the highest quality from the best producers worldwide and deliver it to customers and clients across the Middle East. The minimum order quantity for purchasing calcium carbonate from Ishtar is 25 tons, available in 1-ton jumbo bags or 25-kilogram bags. The company has no restrictions on supplying calcium carbonate and can provide it in any form (powder, lump, etc.) based on customer requirements.
The shipping terms for this product are FOB and CFR ASWP, and the payment terms are fully negotiable. For more information or to place an order, you can contact Ishtar Company’s experts at (+971) 524403255, who will provide you with all the necessary details and assist in processing your order.
Here, we aim to answer some common questions that customers and buyers often have about calcium carbonate:
Do not hesitate to contact us or submit a business enquiry online.
