Calcium stearate is a waxy substance that is widely used in various industries due to its unique properties. Although it is commonly known for its applications in the food and pharmaceutical industry, there are several other surprising uses of calcium stearate that you may not be aware of. In this article, we will explore ten such applications of calcium stearate and their significance in different industries.
Concrete Industry:
Calcium stearate is commonly used in the concrete industry as a weathering agent for cementitious materials. It helps in controlling the weathering of these materials and is commonly used in the production of concrete blocks such as paving stones and blocks, and for waterproofing. The addition of calcium stearate in concrete not only improves its durability but also enhances its strength.
Papermaking:
Calcium stearate is also used as a lubricant in papermaking to provide good gloss and prevent dust and creases from cracking in paper and cardboard. The addition of calcium stearate in papermaking also enhances the printing quality of paper and improves its finish.
Plastics:
Calcium stearate has several applications in the plastics industry. It is commonly used as an acid scavenger or neutralizer, lubricant, and mold release agent in plastic manufacturing. In rigid PVC, calcium stearate can accelerate melting, improve fluidity, and reduce matrix expansion. Additionally, it can also be used in plastic masterbatch to improve the wettability of pigments.
Personal Care and Pharmaceutical Products:
Calcium stearate is used as a mold release agent, tablet release agent, and gelling agent in personal care and pharmaceutical products. It is commonly added to tablets and capsules to help them release easily from the mold and improve their texture. The addition of calcium stearate in personal care products also helps in improving their consistency and stability.
Defoamers:
Calcium stearate is also used as a component of certain types of defoamers. These defoamers are used in various industrial applications, including the production of paper, adhesives, and coatings, to prevent the formation of foam during the production process.
Anti-Caking Agent:
Calcium stearate is commonly used as an anti-caking agent in various food products. It is added to food products to prevent them from caking or clumping together, ensuring that they remain free-flowing. Calcium stearate is commonly used in the production of powdered products such as sugar, cocoa, and spices.
Hard Candy:
Calcium stearate is also used in the production of hard candy. It is used as a flow agent and surface regulator in certain candies, such as Smarties, Jaws, and Spree. The addition of calcium stearate in hard candy helps in regulating the surface texture and improves the candy’s flow characteristics.
Waterproofing Agent:
Calcium stearate is commonly used as a waterproofing agent for fabrics. It is added to fabrics to improve their water resistance and make them more durable. This property makes calcium stearate a popular choice for outdoor clothing, tents, and other similar products.
Pencils and Crayons:
Calcium stearate is used as a lubricant in the production of pencils and crayons. It helps in improving their texture and making them easier to use. The addition of calcium stearate in pencils and crayons also helps in reducing friction and extending their shelf life.
Magnesium Stearate:
Calcium stearate has a similar chemical structure to magnesium stearate and is often used as a substitute for it in certain applications. However, magnesium stearate has better lubricating properties and is commonly used as a lubricant in the production.
