What is Talc?

Talc, also known as Talcum, is a naturally occurring silicate mineral composed of hydrated magnesium silicate and is available as Talc Lumps or finely milled talcum powder. It is the softest mineral known, has a bright white colour, and is widely used as a thickening agent, anti-caking agent, and lubricant to improve flow rate for baby and body powders, paints, coatings and many more applications. Talc is known for its great moisture-absorbing properties; as it is a hydrophobic mineral, it is suitable for keeping products free from moisture. It has organophilic properties, making it excellent for oil-based formulations, as they are, too, water-repelling properties. Furthermore, talc has cohesive forces, an essential characteristic in the pharmaceutical industry to stabilise active pharmaceutical ingredients in formulations. It is also used as a food-grade product for spices, sugar, and salt to prevent water absorption and clumps, as well as for baking products, instant soups and powdered drinks.