Though both are common fillers, talc and calcium carbonate differ significantly in their properties and applications:
| Property | Talc | Calcium Carbonate |
|---|---|---|
| Hardness | Softer (Mohs 1) | Harder (Mohs 3) |
| Structure | Platy | Granular |
| Chemical | Mg₃Si₄O₁₀(OH)₂ | CaCO₃ |
| Oil Absorption | Lower | Higher |
| Thermal Resistance | Higher | Moderate |
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Talc is preferred where flexibility and heat resistance are needed (e.g., automotive plastics, paints).
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Calcium carbonate is ideal for high-brightness and rigid fillers in plastics, paper, and rubber.
