Calcium carbonate, comprised of ground calcium carbonate (GCC) and precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC), is one of the world’s primary value-added compounds. Major components in the plastics industry, both GCC and PCC are used in related markets such as paper and paints, in spite of being different in chemical and physical composition. Analysts at Technavio predict that the GCC and PCC market will grow at a CAGR of 6% and 5% between 2016 and 2020, respectively.
Trends in the global calcium carbonate market
The latest trends in the calcium carbonate market are not only having a direct impact on the industry, but are also changing the way in which vendors compete. Below is a list of the current trends that will undoubtedly take the global calcium carbonate market to the next level.
Rise in the use of nano-calcium carbonate in the plastics, rubber and pharmaceutical industries
Nano or ultrafine precipitated calcium carbonate has an average diameter of less than 100 nanometers, and due to its exceptional physical and chemical properties, it is being used as an additive in many products, specifically plastic, paper, paint, rubber, and pharmaceuticals. Factors like high porosity, high surface area to volume ratio, non-toxicity, and biocompatibility with bodily fluids are what make ultrafine precipitated calcium carbonate such a critical component in all of these industries.
Using calcium carbonate as a substitute for kaolin in the paper industry
Another major trend that has fuelled the demand for calcium carbonate around the globe is its use as a substitute for kaolin in the paper industry. Since synthesized PCC is brighter and whiter than kaolin, many manufacturers are using it for paper filling and coating purposes. Also, unlike kaolin, which needs to be mined and processed, PCC is readily available, making it an ideal substitute not just for kaolin, but also for wood pulp and additives.
Increased use of alkaline-based process technology
While Europe is focusing on reducing water consumption and recycling secondary fibre, North American paper manufacturers are focusing on cutting down the cost of papermaking. Alkaline-based process technology is not only cost-effective and eco-friendly, it also increases the brightness and the opacity of paper. The increased use of alkaline based process technology has in turn boosted the demand for PCC and GCC across the globe.
Some of the key vendors in the global calcium carbonate market include IMERYS, Mineral Technologies, Omya and Okutama Kogyo.
