Calcium carbonate and Coated Calcium carbonate are two forms of the same chemical compound, but they differ in their physical and chemical characteristics and applications. This discussion of TLD Vietnam will explore the key differences between Coated and Uncoated Calcium carbonate, exploring their manufacturing processes, surface characteristics, and diverse uses across industries like plastics, paints, and paper.

What Is Uncoated Calcium Carbonate?

Calcium carbonate (CaCO3) is a chemical compound composed of calcium, carbon, and oxygen. It is a common substance found in rocks, shells of marine organisms, and minerals. The chemical formula remains the same for Uncoated Calcium carbonate and Coated Calcium carbonate.

Uncoated Calcium carbonate is commonly used as a filler in various products, including paper, plastics, and paints. It helps to provide bulk and reduce costs, making it an economical option for manufacturers. However, due to its hydrophilic nature, it can present challenges when mixed with non-polar substances, limiting its dispersion and processing in certain applications.

What Is Coated Calcium Carbonate?

Coated Calcium carbonate, in contrast, is produced by applying a surface coating to Uncoated Calcium carbonate, typically using Stearic acid or other organic compounds. This coating modifies the surface properties of the calcium carbonate, rendering it hydrophobic (water-repellent). The coating process enhances the material’s compatibility with non-polar materials and improves its performance in a variety of applications.

Coated Calcium carbonate is widely utilized in industries such as plastics, rubber, and paints, where it acts as a functional filler that improves product properties while keeping production costs low. Its hydrophobic characteristics allow it to disperse more effectively in non-polar media, thereby enhancing the quality and durability of the final products.

Key Differences Between Coated And Uncoated Calcium Carbonate

Coated And Uncoated Calcium Carbonate: Manufacturing Process

Coated Calcium carbonate

Coated Calcium carbonate is produced by treating Uncoated Calcium carbonate with a surface-modifying agent to enhance its properties. The manufacturing process includes the following steps:

• Preparation of Base Powder: The process begins with the production of Uncoated Calcium carbonate powder, following the extraction and grinding steps described above.
• Surface Coating: The powder is mixed with a coating agent, typically stearic acid or other organic compounds, in a high-temperature mixing system. The stearic acid adheres to the surface of the particles, forming a hydrophobic coating that improves compatibility with non-polar materials.
• Quality Testing and Packaging: The coated product undergoes testing to verify its hydrophobicity and particle size distribution before being packaged for distribution.

Uncoated Calcium carbonate

Uncoated Calcium carbonate is produced from natural mineral sources without surface treatment. The manufacturing process involves the following steps:

• Extraction: Limestone, marble, or chalk is extracted from quarries or mines. These raw materials primarily consist of calcium carbonate with a purity typically ranging from 95-98%.
• Grinding: The raw material is processed into a fine powder using ball mills or roller mills. This step reduces the particle size to meet specific application requirements.
• Screening: The powder is classified according to particle size, typically ranging from 1 to 100 micrometers, to ensure suitability for various industrial applications.
• Packaging: The resulting powder is packaged into bags or bulk containers for distribution, without undergoing additional chemical treatment.

Coated And Uncoated Calcium carbonate: Surface Properties

The most significant distinction between Coated and Uncoated Calcium carbonate is in their surface characteristics. Uncoated Calcium carbonate is hydrophilic, meaning it has an affinity for water, which can lead to clumping or poor dispersion in non-polar materials. On the other hand, Coated Calcium carbonate is hydrophobic, allowing it to mix more effectively with non-polar substances, making it a preferred choice in applications within the plastics and rubber industries.

Coated And Uncoated Calcium Carbonate: Surface Properties

Because of its hydrophilic nature, Uncoated Calcium carbonate may struggle to achieve uniform dispersion in non-polar matrices, leading to uneven product quality and diminished mechanical performance. In contrast, Coated Calcium carbonate’s hydrophobic properties improve its dispersion in non-polar materials, resulting in better consistency and enhanced performance.

Coated and Uncoated Calcium carbonate: Applications

Uncoated Calcium carbonate is primarily used in applications where cost reduction is a key priority. It is commonly used in paper production, where it serves as a filler to increase bulk and opacity. Additionally, it finds uses in agricultural applications, animal feed, and as a dietary supplement due to its natural properties. Coated Calcium carbonate, on the other hand, is favored in industries that require higher performance standards. In the plastics industry, it enhances the strength and durability of plastic products while improving surface finish. In the paint industry, Coated Calcium carbonate acts as an extender pigment, improving opacity and brightness without compromising quality.

Coated and Uncoated Calcium carbonate: Cost Implications

Uncoated Calcium carbonate is typically less expensive than its coated counterpart due to the absence of the additional coating process. This makes it an attractive option for applications where performance requirements are less stringent. Coated Calcium carbonate, though generally more costly, offers enhanced performance characteristics that justify the higher cost for applications that demand superior quality.

Coated and Uncoated Calcium carbonate: Environmental Considerations

Both Coated and Uncoated Calcium carbonate are considered environmentally friendly materials, as they are derived from natural sources. However, the coating agents used in the production of Coated Calcium carbonate can vary, and some may raise concerns regarding their environmental impact. It is important to consider the source of the coating materials and ensure compliance with environmental regulations when selecting Coated Calcium carbonate for specific applications.

Market Trends And Growth Of Calcium Carbonate

The global Calcium carbonate market was valued at USD 60.76 billion in 2024, with projections indicating growth from USD 65.13 billion in 2025 to USD 86.70 billion by 2032, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.2% during the forecast period. In terms of regional dominance, Asia Pacific led the market with a substantial share of 53.64% in 2024.

Asia Pacific holds a prominent position in the natural calcium carbonate market, particularly in 2026, driven by rapid industrialization, urbanization, and infrastructure development in countries like China and India. These factors are fueling the demand for natural calcium carbonate in sectors such as construction and manufacturing. The availability of abundant natural resources and cost-effective labor in the region significantly contributes to market growth. Additionally, the increasing consumption of paper-based products in emerging economies is further driving the demand for natural calcium carbonate as a filler and coating agent, improving paper quality and reducing production costs.

However, several challenges remain for the market’s growth. One of the key issues is the availability of high-quality raw materials. Fluctuations in mining activities and stringent environmental regulations can affect supply, resulting in price increases that may hinder market expansion. Furthermore, competition from synthetic alternatives that offer sometimes superior properties could limit the demand for natural calcium carbonate.

Additionally, a lack of awareness among end-users about the advantages of natural calcium carbonate over synthetic options presents a barrier to market adoption. In emerging markets, where product education is essential, this knowledge gap could slow the rate of adoption, affecting overall market growth.

Conclusion

Choosing between Coated and Uncoated Calcium Carbonate depends on the unique needs of each application. Uncoated Calcium carbonate is well-suited for cost-sensitive applications, offering bulk and functionality, while Coated Calcium carbonate excels in situations where performance, compatibility, and quality are critical. Understanding the differences between these two forms of calcium carbonate can aid manufacturers in making informed decisions that ultimately improve product quality and operational efficiency. By selecting the appropriate type of Calcium carbonate, businesses can optimize their processes and produce high-quality products. 

TLD Vietnam – A Global Producer Of Ground Calcium Carbonate

TLD Vietnam is the global calcium carbonate manufacturer in Vietnam. Our state-of-the-art factory spans 46,000 square meters with a robust monthly capacity of 50.000 MT. Our factory is equipped with advanced machinery, including Ball Mills, Roller Mills, Hydraulic Mills, and coating machines from top manufacturers in Germany, Taiwan, and China.

We adhere to rigorous international standards such as ISO, Reach, and FDA for quality control, ensuring each batch of our product meets the highest benchmarks for consistency and excellence.

With a minimum purity of 98.5%, whiteness of 98%, and brightness of 96%, our Ground Calcium Carbonate finds widespread use in various industries such as the plastic and rubber industry, paper industry, paint and coating industry, and other industries. 

TLD Vietnam is committed to providing both Coated and Uncoated Calcium carbonate of the highest quality to ensure that your business meets its specific needs effectively at best price and exceptional customer service.